Dougals County celebrates the outstanding achievements of their deputies and civilians who risked it all saving lives and showing the community their inner strength.
Three medical professionals happened to be at the right place at the right time, all helping save the life of Talia Schaffart, 8, who was critically injured in a wreck in late 2016 at 103rd and Blair High Rd.
Saturday, they're being recognized for going out of their way to save a life.
"It's a miracle that child is doing cartwheels and doing what she's doing," said Annie Welsch, a respiratory therapist who helped save Schaffart.
The women found Schaffart unconscious and not breathing after getting t-boned in a wreck in December of 2016.
They administered CPR and kept the girl breathing for at least 10 minutes before paramedics arrived – a short period of time that could have easily ended in tragedy.
The women say seeing the little girl alive and well is enough thanks.
"That’s all we need,” said Erin DeBerry, a physician’s assistant. “It makes my heart jump out of my chest," said Dani Perreten, a CNA.
The women being at the right place at the right time, they say was an act of god.
"That there was everything that she needed was there at the moment she needed it,” Welsch said. “That, honestly, doesn't happen in real life. There was something greater watching over her that day, I totally believe that."
Talia's mom says she couldn't be thankful enough.
"It’s hard to find words to thank them enough for what they did for her," said Jenna Staskiewicz.
Welsch, DeBerry and Perreten were each personally thanked and given an award for their efforts.
"It really feels good,” said Douglas County Sheriff Tim Dunning. “The fact that this little girl is running around, having a good time tonight, that's worth it."
Talia, who suffered a traumatic brain injury among other injuries, has recovered from the wreck beyond expectations, Staskiewicz said.
