Ephrata Bus Driver Recognized for Saving Child’s Life

An Ephrata School District bus driver is receiving praise for saving the life of an elementary-age little girl.

Patti Helaas was driving her afternoon route March 3rd when the girl, one of her passengers, began choking. Helaas quickly stepped in and performed the Heimlich maneuver, likely saving the girl's life.

District Communications Officer Sarah Morford said Helaas' heroic efforts were in part the result of good preparation.

"I think it's really important to note that we train our bus drivers regularly for events like this in the hopes that they never happen." Morford said, "But Patti sure did a good job stepping up, using the training and the Heimlich approach to save the life of that child."

Helaas received the Ephrata School District's "Excellence Award" for her heroism Wednesday, as well as the Civilian Life Saving Award from the Ephrata Fire Department.