The Greater Rochester Chapter of the American Red Cross honored local heroes on October 29, including a fifth grader from Leo Bernabi Elementary School whose quick actions helped to save his grandfather’s life.
Ten year old Anthony Palermo received the Humanitarian Hero Youth Award as part of the Red Cross’ inaugural Hometown Heroes breakfast at the RIT Inn and Conference Center in West Henrietta.
Anthony was honored with the award for his bravery on June 9, 2012, when he was spending the night at his grandparents’ house. Anthony was sleeping on the couch near his grandfather, who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Around 2 a.m., his grandfather’s breathing was in distress and he was able to wake Anthony for help. Anthony than ran upstairs to wake his grandmother, who is hearing impaired. After minutes of yelling and pushing, Anthony was able to wake her up and they contacted 911. An ambulance transported Anthony’s grandfather to the hospital, where he was placed in ICU.
“Our family believes that if Anthony did not spend the night on June 9, 2012, his grandpa would not be here with us today,” Sue Palmero, Anthony’s mom and nominator, said. “He would have been in distress until his wife woke up this morning. We are so proud of Anthony for saving our dad, grandfather and great-grandfather.”
Nancy Blaschak, Regional CEO for the Red Cross said, “These are everyday people who have taken incredible action in times of crisis to help their family, friends and neighbors in need, and their actions have literally saved lives. The American Red Cross is proud to recognize these Hometown Heroes, and we look forward to sharing their incredible stories.”
Provided information and photo
11/10/13
