Civilians Receive Life Saving Medals

On Jan. 5, 2026, during a Dayton High School basketball game, a student collapsed and suffered a seizure before becoming unresponsive, with no pulse or respirations. Three adults in attendance – school nurse Danielle Salamone along with Rob Schneider and Jason Santos – immediately stepped in and initiated lifesaving care, restoring the student’s pulse prior to EMS arriving on scene.

In recognition of their extraordinary actions, these local heroes were honored at the Feb. 12 Central Lyon Fire Protection District Fire Board Meeting, in a room filled with friends and family members there to show support. Fire Chief Tim McHargue offered recognition of the lifesaving measures taken and presented Salamone and Schneider with Life Saving Medals. (Santos will receive his award at the Mar. 12 board meeting.)

“The return of spontaneous circulation is very rare, it doesn’t happen a lot,” said Fire Chief McHargue. “Due to their quick thinking, teamwork, and skilled response, the student survived and was stabilized for air transport.”

Salamone commented that she was just happy to be in the right place, at the right time in order to help.

Schneider added, “Danielle’s confidence gave me confidence.”

After the ceremony, one attendee made a statement that the Dayton community can stand behind, “Thank you for saving a life!”