In the very lobby where Skokie police saved his life, a man gave thanks Tuesday to the officers who rushed to his aid just days before.
The man, who police only identified as “Eddie,” came into the lobby of the Skokie Police Department about 11:13 a.m. on April 4th pleading for help before he collapsed on the floor. His heart stopped and his face turned blue, police said.
Skokie police Officer Patrick Panizo was working the front desk and called for an ambulance when Eddie collapsed. He proceeded to clear Eddie’s airway and perform chest compressions, police said. Communications operator Amy Polley grabbed an automatic external defibrillator and brought it to Panizo who administered a shock to Eddie.
Paramedics soon arrived and took over caring for Eddie, who was taken to the hospital after several more shocks, police said.
“Eddie is beyond grateful for the heroism displayed by Officer Panizo, Communications Operator Polley and the Skokie Fire Department personnel who worked as a team to save his life,” the department said in a Facebook post.
The department articulated its pride for the “heroism” displayed by Panizo, Polley and the fire department personnel.
“Congratulations on a job well done,” the department wrote. “And Eddie, take care of that ticker!”
