Local 8 Year Old is a Hero

Until this past weekend, Jessica Cahill was a typical South Jersey 8-year-old, a beautiful little girl, a dutiful daughter and big sister. But on Saturday, because of some quick and clear thinking, she became a family hero. This is the tale of a young hero, and how she saved her uncle's life.

A Berlin man may very well owe his life to his 8-year-old niece. Her call to 911 and the information she gave has astonished even veteran dispatchers here at Camden County 911 communication center.

Eight-year-old Jessica Cahill drew the entire episode on her little note pad. It was Saturday morning and she and her little sister Ashley were staying with their uncle Bernie when he suddenly suffered an epileptic seizure. Jessica dialed 911 and got veteran dispatcher Michael Howard.

Jessica was able to tell the 911 dispatcher that her uncle was supposed to be taking medicine for epilepsy and answered all his follow-up questions.

Jessica stayed on the phone with Howard until police and paramedics could get there. She then summoned her sister to answer the door.

Fortunately, help arrived on time, and 43-year-old Bernie Cahill is going to be all right. 911 supervisors were astonished with Jessica's life saving call for help.

Jessica's mom credits the schools for teaching her daughter about 911.

It's not every day they see a happy ending at 911 headquarters, but that's exactly what this is. A grateful Bernie Cahill is now planning to take Jessica to see E.T. as a reward.

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Author: 6 ABC-AP