It was scheduled to be a normal flight out of Norfolk, Virginia in February 2020. Harbor Group Management Company team members Zach Baker and Tom Eller were headed out of town on a business trip. But for everyone onboard that day, the flight would be anything but normal.
Shortly after the plane took off, a passenger experienced a cardiac emergency. Desperately in need of life-saving measures, those around him only had minutes to act quickly in this high-stakes environment with limited resources. Thankfully, Zach and Tom were ready to assist.
Jumping into action, Zach and Tom picked up the lifeless passenger and moved him to the front of the plane. Once there, Tom performed CPR and used an AED, saving the man’s life. The flight was diverted back to Norfolk where the passenger received further medical attention.
Zach and Tom were faced with a choice on this day: respond or wait for someone else to step in. Because they responded and used the tools available to them, a miracle occurred on that flight and gave yet another testament to the power of CPR and AEDs. Harbor Group Management Company has long been a dedicated partner and supporter of Living for Zachary’s mission, and their team members truly put mission into action. This miraculous event took place on February 10th, Zachary Schrah’s birthday.
In addition to receiving Living for Zachary Heart Hero awards, an AED was awarded to a youth-based organization close to Zach and Tom’s heart. Hampton Roads Sports Academy was chosen, and Zach had the opportunity to present the AED at the facility in Spring 2021. This AED will serve the hundreds of hearts who enter these doors every day.
Zach and Tom are true examples of everyday people who are willing to step in and become Heart Heroes for someone in need. We are proud to honor them through this very special AED donation and protect more hearts because of their bravery.
