LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Some local high school students started their day with a lesson they could use in the real world — lifesaving techniques.
At the Academy @ Shawnee, students in the pre-health program received hands-on training in emergency medical procedures like applying tourniquets, caring for wounds, and administering first aid.
The training, led by medics from the Kentucky Army National Guard, was especially relevant for these students, many of whom are considering careers in healthcare.
Some also live in areas where these skills could be critical in saving a life.
“I’m taking this class because I’m interested in helping people and the medical field overall,” said Tyren Brooks, a junior at the Academy.
The school, located in west Louisville's Shawnee neighborhood, which has seen its share of violence.
Students have witnessed incidents that required immediate action. Melisa Pierson, a teacher and registered nurse at the school, explained the importance of this training.
“If we can stop the bleeding right after the injury, it significantly increases the chances of survival,” she said.
Many students, including Jeremiah Duncan, plan to pursue careers in medicine. Duncan, a junior, wants to become a registered nurse (RN).
He said, “I don’t want to be the person standing by while someone dies. I want to help.”
Pierson emphasized the importance of practical, hands-on experience.
“It’s crucial for them to feel the process and practice these skills. They need to be ready when they’re in a real-life situation,” she said.
The training also made an impact on students like Addison Gaylon, who recalled a traumatic experience.
“Somebody got shot, and no one was there to help. They had to use a shirt to stop the bleeding,” Gaylon said.
The session was not only about skills but also about empowerment.
“There’s a misconception that medical emergencies only happen in the military,” said Sgt. Orlando Gonzales of the Kentucky Army National Guard. “Emergencies can happen anywhere. Our job is to make sure these students are prepared to respond.”
The training is part of an annual program for students at the Academy, and the skills they learn could one day save lives in their community.
“This is something they can use now, and in their future careers,” Pierson said. “It’s about teaching them to act when it matters most.”
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