Medical Health Academy student Anayali Flores ‘19 was recently recognized by Desert Sands Unified School District for saving a fellow Blackhawk’s life during lunch.

“My friend told me someone was choking and I ran over there. I had never gotten up so quickly in my life,” Flores recalled. “We hadn’t learned how to do the Heimlich maneuver yet, so I just started slapping her back until a piece of carrot came out. I was shaking afterwards.”

“I was just thinking, ‘What if I’m not able to help her?’ and ‘What if it doesn’t work?’ […] Before I knew it, it was over and [the carrot] had come out,” she added.

Flores’ knees and legs were shaking so much afterwards, her friends had to help her to her next class. “It was the adrenaline and thinking, ‘Oh my god, I have someone’s life in my hands — literally in my hands.’”

Flores believes MHA helped prepare her for this moment and is grateful to have been able to help. She was recognized by the district on Dec. 12 for her life-saving action and bravery.