WSMV Channel 4 State lawmaker uses training to help save man's life

State lawmaker uses training to help save man's life

When there's an emergency, seconds count. And a Tennessee legislator used his training as a paramedic to help a stranger.

"It's a neat thing to be in the right place at the right time to help somebody," said State Rep. Tony Shipley, R-Kingsport.

Shipley was meeting with colleagues Wednesday at the Doubletree Hotel when a man nearby suffered a seizure.

Shipley has been a paramedic for years and jumped into action.

While a legislative assistant called 911, Shipley got the man onto his side and made sure his airway was clear until the seizure passed.

"As I was checking the patient, 911, I could hear them asking questions about the condition of the patient. And they were trying to give her instructions as to what to do and she said, 'I have a paramedic here, now,'" Shipley said. "So I was giving reports as opposed to taking instructions. I said, 'Tell her I know what to do, just tell her the condition of the patient.'"

Shipley stayed with the man until other medics arrived.

He says he's not a hero, rather he was just doing what he'd been taught.

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