A six-year-old girl from Aurelius, New York, is being celebrated for her quick thinking and bravery after she called 911 to help her father during a medical emergency. Alivia Schroeder made the call on November 17 when her father, Maison Schroeder, suffered a seizure at her grandparents’ home in Sennett.
On Thursday, Alivia was honored by the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office for her heroic actions. Sheriff Brian Schenck presented her with a certificate and named her a junior deputy during a special ceremony at the county’s public safety building. Accompanied by her father, her sister Layla, and their grandparents, Alivia received praise from officials who commended her calm demeanor during the crisis.
"You’re my hero," Sheriff Schenck told Alivia, highlighting the significance of her actions. Denise Spingler, the county’s 911 administrator, also recognized Alivia’s composure, stating, "In recognition of your heroic actions in calling 911, you remained calm and provided the dispatcher with all of the appropriate information to help your dad. Your call amazed us, and we are all so very proud of you."
The incident unfolded when Alivia noticed her father in distress and promptly grabbed his cell phone to call for help. While on the line with dispatchers, she provided vital information, including her name, her father’s name, and their location. She even assisted by adjusting her father’s recliner to help keep his airway open.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after the call, and Maison was transported to the hospital. Alivia’s actions not only potentially saved her father’s life but also served as an important reminder of the need to educate children about emergency protocols. "Imagine being 6 years old and being calm and collected," Deputy Nikki Loveless remarked, noting Alivia’s impressive ability to relay information under pressure.
During the ceremony, Alivia was gifted a red balloon emblazoned with "911" and a bag filled with a stuffed animal, coloring book, and crayons, further celebrating her bravery. The event concluded with Alivia interacting with the first responders who had assisted her family, offering a heartwarming glimpse into the community’s appreciation for her quick thinking.
Maison Schroeder expressed deep gratitude for his daughter’s actions, emphasizing how thankful he is for her presence in his life. The incident has sparked discussions about the importance of teaching children how to respond in emergencies, ensuring they know how to contact help when needed.