On July 9th, 2026 a 71 year old woman choked on a peach resulting in a total obstruction. Protocol was followed. LifeVac dislodged the obstruction on its third attempt. The woman's husband described the incident as follows:
“The morning of July 9, 2026, began like any other. My wife and I were enjoying breakfast together when I noticed she was having trouble swallowing a piece of peach. Within seconds, I realized this was no longer just difficulty swallowing—she was choking. My wife has MS and choking is a frequent occurrence. Usually she can dislodge it herself but not this time. As an EMT, I’ve responded to countless emergencies over the years, but nothing prepares you for the moment when the person you love is the one fighting for their life.
I immediately gave her five back blows, followed by abdominal thrusts, hoping to dislodge the obstruction. Despite every effort, her airway remained blocked. Time seemed to slow down, but every second mattered. I quickly ran to the pantry, grabbed the LifeVac, and applied it. I performed three series of suction attempts. On the third series, the obstruction was finally removed, and she was able to breathe again. The overwhelming feeling of relief in that moment is impossible to describe. I’ve treated strangers in emergencies, but working to save your own spouse is an experience that changes you forever. It reminds you that emergencies don’t only happen to other people—they can happen in your own home, to the people you love most. That morning reinforced the importance of staying calm, acting quickly, trusting your training, and having lifesaving tools like the LifeVac readily available. I am beyond grateful that my wife survived, and I thank God for giving us another day together. I share our story in the hope that it encourages others to learn choking rescue techniques, be prepared for the unexpected, and never underestimate how quickly an ordinary morning can become a fight for someone’s life. Choking emergencies leave no time to hesitate. Know the signs, learn the rescue steps, and keep lifesaving tools like the LifeVac within reach."
Dan H.
