Volunteer Spotlight

Mike Gasperson

While working during a quiet day on May 17th, 2010 at Multnomah Athletic Club in Portland, Clackamas Fire District #1 Volunteer Firefighter Mike Gasperson saved a woman's life that collapsed during a spinning class. Gasperson was called to help after he was notified of the emergency. Once he arrived at her side he noticed her breathing was shallow and sporadic so he immediately administered positive pressure oxygen with a bag/valve mask. Gasperson then called for the AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). After a couple of rounds of CPR, he put the AED pads on her and a shock was advised. After delivering the shock, a pulse was established as Portland Fire rescue personnel arrived on scene and took over patient care. Gasperson received a call later that day from the hospital telling him that the woman is doing well and will recover. "It was truly a dire situation, but I felt confident in my skills and was very glad to have been in a position to help", Gasperson later stated.

Gasperson had just completed his training as a volunteer firefighter with Clackamas Fire weeks before and was formally a member of the Philadelphia Eagles NFL team. Gasperson was recognized at the Clackamas Fire District #1 Board meeting on Monday night June 21st and was presented with the Distinguished Service Award for his actions. Fire Chief Ed Kirchhofer presented the award to Gasperson in front of the board of directors, friends and family. "Mike's actions and character during this event, truly shows his willingness to help anyone in their time of need and we all are very proud that he is a member of this organization" said Kirchhofer.

Josh Traff