School officials are commending staff and first responders for their quick actions after a Galatia Junior High student suffered a medical emergency during a girls basketball game in Johnson County on Tuesday night.
The student, identified as Emi Belford, collapsed on the court at New Simpson Hill around 6:50 p.m. Assistant coach Bruce West, a registered nurse, and Paul Widowski responded immediately—administering aid and utilizing an automated external defibrillator (AED) before emergency crews arrived. Officials say Emi is now in stable condition and receiving care in the cardiac ICU at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
“There is no doubt that their quick action and expertise saved this child’s life,” the school district said in a statement.
New Simpson Hill administrators noted that AEDs have been installed in all area schools since about 2002, but this is believed to be the first time one has been needed in the district. Counselors were made available Wednesday for students and staff as the school community processes the incident.
School officials say they will provide updates on ways to support Emi and her family as more information becomes available.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Emi, her family, and the entire Galatia community as she continues her recovery,” the district’s statement concluded.
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