12-year-old saves drowning man using CPR learned from 'Stranger Things'
In a remarkable display of quick thinking and bravery, 12-year-old Austen MacMillan from Florida saved his drowning behavioral therapist by performing CPR techniques he learned from watching Netflix's 'Stranger Things', proving that even entertainment can be educational in life-saving ways.
A routine session turns critical
The incident occurred during what started as a routine therapy session at a pool. Austen's behavioral therapist, Jason Piquette, suddenly experienced a medical episode and went underwater. While other adults nearby froze in panic, Austen immediately recognized the severity of the situation.
Without hesitation, the 12-year-old dove into action, pulling his therapist to the pool's edge and beginning chest compressions. His calm demeanor and correct technique shocked onlookers, who couldn't believe a child his age knew exactly what to do.
Pop culture saves lives
When asked how he knew to perform CPR, Austen credited an unexpected source: the hit Netflix series 'Stranger Things.' In the show's first season, characters perform CPR on another character, demonstrating the proper technique for chest compressions.
"I remembered how they did it on the show," Austen explained to reporters. "They counted the compressions and kept going until the person started breathing again. So that's what I did."
Medical professionals confirmed that Austen's actions were textbook perfect, maintaining the correct rhythm and pressure for chest compressions until emergency services arrived. His therapist made a full recovery, thanks entirely to the boy's quick response.
The power of media education
Dr. Sarah Chen, an emergency medicine physician, praised Austen's actions while highlighting an important point about modern media. "This shows that children are absorbing information from everywhere, including TV shows. When accurate medical procedures are portrayed in entertainment, it can literally save lives."
The incident has sparked conversations about the responsibility of media creators to accurately depict emergency procedures. The 'Stranger Things' production team released a statement expressing their amazement that their show helped save a life.
Beyond his years
Austen's mother, Jennifer MacMillan, described her son as always being mature for his age, but even she was stunned by his heroic actions. "He's always been a caring kid, but to see him save someone's life... I'm still processing it," she said through tears of pride.
The therapist, Jason Piquette, who has worked with Austen for two years, calls the boy his "guardian angel." "I owe my life to this incredible young man. He didn't just save me; he gave me back to my family."
Inspiring a generation
Since the incident, Austen has become an advocate for CPR education. He's spoken at his school about the importance of learning basic first aid and has inspired his classmates to take CPR certification courses offered by the local Red Cross.
"I want other kids to know they can help too," Austen said. "You don't have to be an adult to save someone's life. You just need to know what to do and not be afraid to try."
The local fire department has honored Austen with a civilian hero award, and his story has inspired parents and educators to consider how popular media can be used as a teaching tool for important life skills.
As for Austen, he remains humble about his heroic act. "I just did what anyone would do," he says. But for Jason Piquette and his family, this 12-year-old boy did something extraordinary — he gave them the gift of life, proving that heroes truly come in all ages.