Local 5th Grader Recognized for Using 911 to Help Mom

A Central Grade School 5th grader was recognized Tuesday by the Effingham County 911 Board for using 911 to help his ailing mom.

Lucas Grupe had just enjoyed his birthday party when his mother experienced a sharp pain, shortness of breath, and a clammy feeling. Those are all signs that could mean a heart attack.

(LUCAS GRUPE)

Mom...also known as Cindy Grupe...told Lucas to phone 911 and tell the dispatcher his mom was having a heart attack. Lucas did just what he was told. 911 telecommunicator Alysa Kilman talked with Lucas to obtain the necessary information to get help quickly dispatched. 

It turns out that mom was dehydrated, but Lucas still got her help when she needed it. She phoned Lucas' school and the 911 Board to let them know of Lucas' actions and the 911 Board decided to recognize the young man for his good work.

Lucas got a fire truck ride to the 911 board meeting over the noon hour, where he was given a proclamation recognizing his efforts and a big basket of goodies to enjoy for a job well done.

Kilman said Lucas was great to work with and gave her great information, which helped her do her best job.

(911 TELECOMMUNICATOR ALYSA KILMAN, WHO WORKED WITH LUCAS ON THE 911 CALL, LUCAS GRUPE, AND 911 BOARD CHAIRMAN JULIE STEPHENS, WHO PRESENTED LUCAS A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING THE GOOD JOB HE DID)

Central School Assistant Principal Todd Schuette said when school officials learned of the plans to honor Lucas they helped facilitate getting him out of school so he could be there for the ceremony and were proud of Lucas for the way he helped.