Governor Phil Scott presented the most prestigious recognition awarded by the American Red Cross, the Certificate of Merit National Lifesaving Award, to Burlington, Vermont resident Andrea Racek at the Vermont State House today. The American Red Cross Certificate of Merit is the organization’s highest award for people who have used the skills they learned in Red Cross courses to help save or sustain a life. The Certificate of Merit honoring Racek was initiated several months ago and is signed by then sitting President Barack Obama and current American Red Cross Chairman Bonnie McElveen-Hunter.
Racek, who was trained in American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED, helped save the life of her father, Dr. Robert Kenerson, after he collapsed at home. Racek performed CPR until paramedics arrived and used an AED which restored her father’s heartbeat. Racek acted quickly and used the skills learned from the American Red Cross which helped save the life of her father. Dr. Kenerson has made a full recovery and will be present for the award presentation.
Also on hand for the presentation: Andrea Racek – honoree; Kevin Racek - family member; Olivia Racek- family member; Matisse Racek- family member; Dr. Robert Kenerson – father/survivor; Dan Kenerson – honoree’s brother; Mattie Scheidt – award nominator and Kevin Mazuzan – American Red Cross Vermont Executive Director.
“I commend Andrea for incredible strength and resourcefulness, reacting under extremely demanding circumstances to save the life of her father,” said Gov. Phil Scott. “Her ability to act on her CPR training in that moment made the ultimate difference, and it will be remembered for years to come.”
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.