"Something is wrong with Grandma." That's how it all started for 16-year-old Tayen Landers, who was honored by the American Red Cross on Wednesday.
Lander's grandmother was driving near a busy intersection in Central Point when she started to look dazed and then she passed out. Tayen managed to put his foot on the brake and stopped the car before it went into the intersection.
While other motorists called 9-1-1, Tayen pulled his grandmother out of the car and onto the street where he performed CPR, keeping her alive until paramedics arrived. He has received praise from the entire community who were impressed by his quick-thinking and composure during this frightening incident.
For his heroic and lifesaving skills, Landers received the Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action yesterday in a ceremony at Rogue Credit Union. The event was part of the celebration of Red Cross Month in March.
Red Cross officials, city leaders, friends and family recognized this local hero who used his skills and knowledge to help save or sustain the life of another individual -- in this case, a beloved family member.
