Waitress Saves Customer's Life

Jessie Richardson’s quick thinking and knowledge of first-aid may have saved the life on an elderly woman Thursday evening.

Richardson was on duty serving customers at in Saline when she spotted the woman, seated with her son. She was holding her chest and unable to breathe.

Richardson scurried to the table, stood behind the woman and performed the Heimlich Maneuver.

“I gave her three thrusts. She coughed a little bit and I could hear her breathing,” Richardson said.

Huron Valley Ambulance arrived on the scene to treat the woman, who left before Patch could learn her identity.

Line cook Jayke Mowery was one of many in the crowded pub who witnessed the incident.

“I was busy and all of the sudden I heard a man yelling. Jessie ran over and performed (the heimlich maneuver) and took care of the problem,” said Mowery. "The woman seemed a little shaken up after. But I think she was fine."

It was the third time Richardson has used the Heimlich Maneuver. She used it once while working at another area restaurant and also used it in another job where she worked with individuals with special needs.

“I’ve done it before so I didn't really hesitate,” said Richardson.

Dan Kolander, owner of the bar, was on his way in to work when he saw the ambulance and told about the incident. He said he wasn’t aware that Richardson knew the Heimlich Maneuver when he hired her. But he’s glad she does.

“She saved someone’s life today,” Kolander said. “That’s a big deal.”