HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Cy-Fair assistant principal gave his students a first-hand look at why first aid and emergency training are important. According to a Cy-Fair school district spokesperson, Blake Coleman used the Heimlich maneuver to save the life of a 6th grade student who was choking on an apple.
Anthony Middle School student Grayson Barger was eating lunch when he says he bit off more than he could chew. "I guess I took a bite that was a little too big," said Barger.
Barger says when he realized he was choking, he started to panic. "This fear rushed through my body and I started freaking out."
That's when Asst. Principal Coleman came to his aid. Coleman said at first he thought the kids were just horse-playing. "I quickly realized what was happening and asked Grayson if he was, in fact, choking. He was bright red but was able to nod," said Coleman. "I gave three thrusts and the apple came out."
The incident happened Friday and on Tuesday Grayson was back at school. "I'm just thankful I'm here right now. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Mr. Coleman."