Story told by: Acacia Mandell, Red Cross Volunteer

It was a typical start to the school day on a February morning at Carolina Park Elementary. Fifth-grade teacher Mrs. Johnnie Williams and her classroom were preparing for their morning activities. 11-year-old student Mason Eikevik unpacked his school bag and popped a blue Jolly Rancher into his mouth. Within a few minutes, the day would take a drastic turn.

Mason felt that something was wrong and that he might be in a troubling situation. The piece of candy was stuck in his throat, and he was struggling to breathe. Mason approached Mrs. Williams at her desk.

"I'll admit, I was kind of scared when I first saw him… I thought he was going to be sick." Mrs. Williams sent another student to the first floor to get the school nurse. "(Mason) kept shaking his head "no" and gave me the universal sign for choking."

Mrs. Williams remained calm and guided Mason.

"I had my instincts kick in from the American Red Cross of the Heimlich and how to do it. I said, 'Okay, buddy, I'm going to reach around you and get whatever this is- out.'

"Performing what is known as the Heimlich Maneuver, she stood behind Mason, had him lean into her, reached around his belly, and did a few thrusts with her fists. The candy did not dislodge. Ms. Williams was getting ready to rush Mason to the nurse for assistance. They left the classroom, but as soon as they turned the corner, the teacher realized Mason was struggling to walk. Jumping into action, Ms. Williams knew she had to try again. Immediately.

"We got to the hallway… and I did about three or four more thrusts, and the blue Jolly Rancher flew out of his mouth." Mason knelt on the floor, recovering but shaken. Mrs. Williams sat down and comforted him. At this point, the school nurse met them in the hallway and brought Mason to her office to ensure he was okay. The nurse then made the phone call to his parents, Brian and Mariesa Eikevik."

(We went through) …a lot of emotions." Says Mason's father Brian. "We want to make sure she (Mrs. Williams) gets acknowledged for everything she's done. She's a hero, and we are so grateful for her." Mariesa Eikevik, Mason's mom, states, "You never think that would be something to happen in school. It's very overwhelming and shocking. She's an amazing teacher."

Mrs. Williams would later to receive the prestigious American Red Cross Life Saving Award for Extraordinary Personal Action in June of 2024. This award is given to anyone who shows extraordinary action save or sustain a life in the face of an emergency.

That same day, Mrs. Eikevik emailed Ms. Williams and asked if they could meet after school. Once the ladies saw each other, they hugged and broke down into tears. The Eikeviks have two younger children in addition to Mason, one of whom also attends Carolina Park Elementary. The two siblings made thank-you cards for Ms. Williams.

"I am very grateful for their gratitude," notes Mrs. Williams. "They have done everything to recognize me. It's very humbling."

Mrs. Williams received lifeguard and athletic training years ago at Wando High School. Her advice to others who may be in a similar situation is; "Trust your instincts. If you know it, do it. Don't hesitate. Jump into action."

She also credits her fellow teachers for comforting Mason and consoling her shortly after the choking incident. The teachers spoke with their students and reinforced the importance of Mason's actions to let his teacher know that something was wrong. Mrs. Williams believes it is simply a part of her job description to keep her students safe.

"I love my students. I tell them every day, "I will do anything in my power to protect you all. No matter what the situation is."

The American Red Cross trains more than 4.6 million people every year in First Aid, CPR, BLS, and other lifesaving procedures. Training Services is a division of the American Red Cross that spreads knowledge and educates people in lifesaving procedures.