Student Recognized for Saving Woman's Life

Junior Steven Smith, 17, called on his First Aid training through Boy Scouts to help save a choking woman's life in October.

Smith was recognized for his efforts on Thursday by the Francis Howell Board of Education.

Francis Howell principal Chris Greiner told the board that a woman was driving by Francis Howell High School on Oct. 20 and was eating her dinner when she suddenly began to choke. She pulled over into the school parking lot to try to get help.

A girl who was a member of the color guard noticed the woman's distress but wasn't sure what to do, Greiner said.

Smith was practicing nearby with the band and rushed over to help.

"He dislodged whatever was choking her and basically saved her life," Greiner said.

Smith has been a member of the Boy Scouts for 10 years and said he's learned first aid. He said he reacted on instinct.

"She hadn't lost conciousness yet," he said. "But she was close."

Smith said he hopes people who hear what happened educate themselves on how to help someone who is choking.