Saved mother last Summer
Eight year old Leonel Bermudez wears Captain Josh Loftin's helmet as he sits in the fire truck on Dec. 20. Loftin nominated Bermudez for a Life Saving Award for his actions in July 2023.
SPOKANE VALLEY – A local child was given a service award during the Dec. 11 Fire Commission meeting.
Eight-year-old Leonel Bermudez was presented with a Life Saving Award for his heroic actions that helped save his mother's life on July 5, 2023.
Bermudez, who was nominated by Spokane Valley Engine Nine Captain Josh Loftin, showcased remarkable composure and maturity during a medical emergency, earning him recognition from the Spokane Valley Fire Department.
Monica Bermudez, Leonel's mother, had been experiencing seizures over the past couple of years.
Understanding the potential risks, she took the proactive step of teaching her young son how to recognize danger and when to call 911. Little did she know that this valuable lesson would make all the difference in a critical situation.
During the incident last July, Leonel quickly put his mother's teachings into practice.
According to Captain Loftin, Bermudez's actions were instrumental in ensuring his mother received the prompt assistance she needed.
Loftin emphasized the importance of educating children in emergency procedures, highlighting that 85% of emergency calls pertain to medical situations.
Spokane Valley Fire Chief Frank Soto Jr. presented the Life Saving Award and commended Bermudez for his extraordinary response.
"Seeing an eight-year-old do what he did is amazing," Soto said.
Loftin also praised Bermudez for his exceptional ability to provide crucial information to emergency dispatchers.
"The way he was able to answer the questions and provide information was something I would expect from someone in their 20's or 30's," Loftin noted.
In addition to managing the emergency call, Bermudez also took care of his baby sister, who became distressed during the incident.
Loftin recounted, "He ran right over and picked her up, gave her a toy, and was able to help keep her calm through the situation."
Monica Bermudez, still in awe of her son's bravery, expressed her gratitude and pride.
"He's my hero," she said. "I feel like a superhero's mom."
Leonel Bermudez credited his ability to remain calm and composed to his mother's teachings. "She taught me that I don't have to be scared. She taught me to be strong," he shared. "I love my mom a lot, and it made me feel good to help."
The story of Leonel Bermudez shows how big of an impact children can have in emergency situations, showcasing the importance of early education in life-saving procedures.
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
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