12-Year-Old Girl Saves Twin Brother from Choking at School Cafeteria: ‘It Was Instinct’

A 12-year-old girl named Amelia Loverme from Massachusetts recently saved her twin brother, Charlie, from choking on a piece of mozzarella cheese at their school cafeteria. The incident, which occurred at Leicester Middle School, was captured on surveillance video. When Charlie began choking and his friends were unsure of what to do, Amelia instinctively sprang into action and performed the Heimlich maneuver on her brother. Charlie expressed his fear during the ordeal, but Amelia’s quick response saved his life.

Amelia spoke to WBZ News, stating that she didn’t hesitate to help her brother because it felt like the right thing to do. The video footage shows her swiftly getting up from her seat, standing behind Charlie, and applying the Heimlich maneuver. Their father, Jason Loverme, highlighted the importance of teaching children life-saving techniques. He emphasized that even if children may seem disinterested, they can remember and apply such knowledge in critical situations.

Amelia’s courageous act has garnered recognition from the school committee, and the local police chief and District Attorney are collaborating to further honor her. The incident has also strengthened the bond between Amelia and Charlie, with Charlie expressing his gratitude for his sister’s intervention. Amelia’s bravery serves as a reminder of the importance of learning essential first aid techniques and being prepared to react in emergency situations.

This incident brings to mind another heartwarming story from the previous year. Eight-year-old Garrett Brown was hailed as a hero for saving a classmate who was choking on a chicken nugget at Lakeview Elementary School in Oklahoma. Garrett was presented with a “hero award” during a special assembly, where he was publicly thanked by the boy he saved, Cashton York. The two boys shared a touching moment, exchanging gratitude and embracing each other.

Choking emergencies can be life-threatening, and it is crucial to know how to respond when someone is unable to cough, speak, or breathe. Organizations like the Red Cross provide guidelines for such situations, including techniques like bending the person forward, delivering back blows, performing abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver), and attempting CPR if the person remains unconscious and continues to choke.

Amelia’s heroic actions highlight the impact that individuals, regardless of age, can have when they are equipped with life-saving skills and act promptly in critical situations. Her story serves as an inspiration for others to be prepared and willing to help those in need.