CAREGIVER APPRECIATION: Jessica

In late April, 2021, Jessica Bliven had recently moved into a new home and was working in her garage when she heard a loud scream. Jessica's new home backed up directly to a lake, as did the other homes in the neighborhood. She rushed to the source of the scream and found neighbors pulling the limp body of a small child from the lake. Suspecting a cardiac arrest Jessica charged the scene and took immediate action; she performed CPR and while doing so directed one bystander to call 911 to report the emergency. Jessica also directed another bystander to the homes of two additional nurses living in the immediate area in an effort to gain additional medical help before an ambulance could arrive.

Before any additional medical staff arrived Jessica was able to achieve a return of spontaneous circulation in the child. Jessica continued to lead the effort and began treating the child for cold exposure by removing the sopping wet clothing and wrapping the child in dry towels. When EMS arrived on scene the child was alive and required only supportive care with standard monitoring during their trip to the hospital. The child returned home intact and health within several days following the event. Jessica went way above and beyond at every step of the way. She didn't ignore the scream, she took charge of the scene, she capably directed what resources she had available to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient. Not just a patient - her neighbor’s child. There is no doubt that if not for the courage, training, and skill possessed by Jessica Bliven our community would have suffered the loss of this child. A real person, a child, has been given a second chance at life; a new chance to grow, fall in love, start a family, and pursue happiness because of the actions she took that day. Some folks would have just ignored the screams and went back inside their home to peek through curtains when the flashing lights arrive. I am very proud to work alongside Jessica and I wish we had more like her.

RECOGNIZING A TEAM MEMBER

When you recognize someone and make a donation, your "Blessing Angel" will receive a personalized certificate and a special angel pin to proudly wear each and every day, knowing they made a difference in your experience here at the Blessing Health System.

How To Nominate a "Blessing Angel":

  • Complete the online donation and nomination form located here.
  • When filling out the form you will select Who's Your Angel Nomination and then will be asked to tell us about your "Blessing Angel" and how they made a difference.  
  • Once your nomination is submitted and reviewed the "Blessing Angel" will be presented with a personalized certificate and angel pin to thank and recognize them for the exceptional care that they provided.

CONTACT US

For more information about the Blessing Foundation or to discuss a donation or gift, call (217) 223-8400, ext. 4800, or email us at blessingfoundation@blessinghealth.org.