Two children were rescued by community members in May after falling into pools in Orange County. The emergencies, which happened in Hillsborough and Chapel Hill, occurred within a week of each other and almost ended in tragedy.

The first incident happened on May 12. A 4-year-old boy named Parker was found unresponsive in the community pool by his father. Dr. Anita Skariah, a local physician talking with Parker’s father at the time, started CPR. Gabe Walker, an Orange High School student on the scene, assisted her. The child became responsive after more than two minutes of compressions and was taken to the hospital for a full recovery.

EMS Operations Manager Kim Woodward described the events of May 12 before commending Skariah and Walker on their actions at the Orange County Commissioners meeting this week.

“These two right here are really the first link the chain of survival,” said Woodward. “Because of their actions, Parker is with us today: a very healthy, active 4 year old.”

Another near-drowning happened the next week. Chapel Hill residents Savannah Jastram and Norman Picard helped save a young girl who fell into a pool at night. After hearing her calls for help, the two scaled a fence, rescued the girl from the water and administered CPR until EMS arrived. The child also had a full recovery.

All of those who took steps to save the children’s lives were honored at the county commissioners meeting. The citizens who helped and the first responders who arrived at the scenes were all awarded with certificates deeming them community heroes. They also received Challenge Coins from the emergency service branches, which honor heroism and strength.

Skariah, who is friends with Parker and his family, shared a video at the meeting of the family thanking the community members and emergency services. She also commented on how well everyone contributed in helping Parker and how thankful she was once he recovered.

“I can tell you 45 minutes later after this event, I cried tears of joy to see him eating a popsicle in the ER bay,” Skariah said. “It just blows me away.”

Present EMS members and some county commissioners promoted the resources of public CPR classes happening around Orange County. They encouraged citizens to consider taking courses to be prepared for similar situations to those in May.

Related Stories
‹
Rani Dasi Sworn in as New District 1 Orange County Commissioner
Dasi was one of six people who threw her hat in the ring for the District 1 position, and was ultimately selected by the board to serve out the rest of Bedford’s term.
Rani Dasi Prepares to Close Chapter of CHCCS Leadership, Take On County Commissioner Role
Rani Dasi visited 97.9 The Hill for an exclusive interview about her appointment, her legacy during three terms on the school board, and more.
On Air Today: Orange County Commissioner-Elect Rani Dasi
Orange County Commissioner Select and outgoing Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools Board Member Rani Dasi joined 97.9 The Hill's Andrew Stuckey in studio on Thursday, July 30. She discussed her recent selection to fill a term on the Orange County Board of Commissioners. She talked about her legacy on the school board, why now seemed like a time to make the move, what her priorities are for the Orange County Commissioners, and more.
Orange County Board of Commissioners Unanimously Votes for Rani Dasi to Fill District 1 Seat
Rani Dasi is poised to join the Board of Orange County Commissioners this summer, earning a short-term selection by unanimous vote.
The Morning News: Rani Dasi to County Commissioner, Mandarin Dual Language at CHCCS
In today's news: CHCCS board member Rani Dasi is nominated for an open seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
Orange County Dems Select Rani Dasi as Bedford Successor, Next Permanent District 1 Commissioner
The executive committee members of the local Democratic party picked Rani Dasi out of a group of six applicants to the District 1 seat.
Who Will Orange County Democrats Choose to Replace Jamezetta Bedford? Here Are The Candidates
The six candidates who applied to fill the District 1 seat shared their responses to the Orange County Democratic Party's questions.
Orange County Commissioners Update Parameters for Homeowners Assistance, Set Process for Bedford's Vacancy
The Board of Orange County Commissioners held a rare summer meeting with several consequential agenda items on July 9. Here are the details.
Rani Dasi Seeks Seat of Late Orange County Commissioner Jamezetta Bedford
Rani Dasi, a current member of the CHCCS board, announced her intention to fill the vacant seat left by the late Jamezetta Bedford.
Orange County's Kirby Saunders on Chantal Anniversary and Its Emergency Management Lessons – On Air Today (July 7, 2026)
Orange County Emergency Services Director Kirby Saunders speaks with 97.9 The Hill News Director Brighton McConnell about the recent anniversary of Tropical Storm Chantal.
›