Red Cross honors mom and son for saving family member's life

A mother and son have been named as the Red Cross True Blue Hero for November by the Hawaii State Chapter of the American Red Cross and Central Pacific Bank.

Elena Kim and son Andrew, 13, were honored by Coralie Matayoshi, the chapter's chief executive officer, for an act of heroism in a life-threatening emergency.

Andrew found his younger brother, Nolan, floating unconscious in the family swimming pool on Aug. 25, 2004. He immediately rescued him and called for help.

His mother had recently completed a Red Cross cardiopulmonary resuscitation class and used her new skills to help save her son's life until emergency personnel arrived.

"The Kims' story is a gentle reminder that lifesaving skills can be invaluable," said Denis Isono, Central Pacific Bank executive vice president.

"Andrew and Elena both exemplify the actions of a True Blue Hero," he said, adding that they "serve as great role models and an inspiration to us all."

Matayoshi said the quick response by Andrew and his mother are "a great example of the importance of being prepared."

A nomination form for the True Blue Hero can be downloaded from www.hawaiiredcross.org or www.central- pacificbank.com to nominate someone who has shown courage, compassion and unselfish character.

For more information on the program, call Jaylene Chee at the Red Cross, 739-8130.