Meals on Wheels volunteers save elderly man's life

DOWNEY - Two volunteers with Meals on Wheels who saved an elderly man in need of medical attention were honored at a City Council meeting last month.Elizabeth Ruiz and Susan Herrera deliver meals through the Human Services Association's Meals on Wheels program, taking nutritious food directly to residents who cannot obtain food on their own. The women recently delivered food to elderly resident James Cook. He complained he was not feeling well but declined medical attention. After finishing their rounds, Ruiz and Herrera returned to check on Cook who by this time was in need of immediate medical attention. They called 911. Doctors said Cook may have died if not for the two women. For their efforts, Ruiz and Herrera received Mayor Mario Guerra's Diakonia Award that recognizes random acts of kindness in the community. "We are blessed to have such wonderful, caring people in our community that show compassion and are willing to help others in need," Guerra said. "Both Ms. Ruiz and Ms. Herrera did an extraordinary thing that helped save Mr. Cook's life, and for that we sincerely thank them." Nominations for the Diakonia Award can be submitted by calling the City Council office at (562) 904-7274 or e-mailing sconte@downeyca.org.

********** Published: April 11, 2013 - Volume 11 - Issue 52