Five San Angelo firefighters have been recognized after saving an infant born inside of a toilet.
Fire Chief Patrick Brody recognized the firefighters during the City Council meeting on Tuesday.
"It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today to recognize the truly extraordinary act of service, courage, professionalism by five members of the San Angelo Fire department," Brody said.
On Aug. 10 around 11 a.m., a call was dispatched for an unconscious infant and an obstetrics-gynecology emergency.
"Ladder 1 and Medic 6 responded swiftly to the scene not yet knowing the critical nature of what they were about to face," Brody said. "Upon arrival, the crew of Ladder 1 discovered a medical scenario that most never encounter in their careers."
There was an infant born en caul -- still enclosed in the amniotic sac, which occurs in one in 80,000 deliveries, Brody stated. The baby was born in the toilet at just 26 weeks gestation.
"This child was no larger than the palm of your hand and was in grave danger," Brody said. "With skill, calm under pressure and true dedication, Ladder 1 crew carefully removed the infant from the sack and immediately initiated lifesaving resuscitations."
Within moments, Medic 6 arrived to continue the support.
"Working together with seamless coordination, the team provided CPR and supplemental oxygen and rapidly transported the infant to the emergency department without delay," he said. "Their efforts were nothing short of miraculous. Thanks to their swift and decisive actions, the infant regained a pulse during transport and was transferred into the care of the hospital staff."
Brody said he was proud to share that the child is expected to make a full recovery.
"It is difficult to overstate the gravity of this day without the rapid expert care delivered by these responders," he said. "The outcome could have been much tragically different. Instead, because of their dedication, their training, a life was saved."
Brody said he wanted to highlight the highest respect and present the San Angelo Fire Department life saving award and stork pin to the five firefighters.
The recipients were:
"Each of you exemplify what it means to be a first responder: prepared, compassionate, unwavering in the face of crisis," Brody said. "You not only upheld the mission of the San Angelo Fire Department, you fulfilled the deepest calling of this profession -- to save lives. We thank you. Your actions will never be forgotten."