VA Northern Indiana employee saves coworker's life
Eric Bilbrey, an Electronics Mechanic at VA Northern Indiana Health Care System (VANIHCS) was presented with a Directors Coin to recognize his heroic and lifesaving actions.
Thursday, March 31, 2022, Bilbrey distinguished himself by saving a fellow employee's life during their lunch break. A Veteran employee began choking due to a medical condition that makes it difficult to swallow. The employee realized they could not breathe and began banging on the hall walls in hopes someone would hear and help him.
Thankfully, Bilbrey heard the banging and saw the employee slumped over in need of immediate aid. Bilbrey jumped right into action and started to perform the Heimlich maneuver. After several attempts, he was able to dislodge the obstruction from the employee’s airway and instantly initiated a 911 call for medical professionals.
It is believed that Bilbrey’ s quick response and appropriate action of the Heimlich maneuver, led to the employee’s survival.
“Eric represents the best of VANIHCS. Without his immediate intervention, this event could have ended tragically. I am beyond proud to serve with employees like Mr. Bilbrey,” said Stephen Sheets, Assistant Director of VANIHCS.
VANIHCS Leadership and staff commend Eric Bilbrey for his lifesaving actions.