Lifesaving Efforts Recognized at Facility Event Honoring Paramedic and FAA Employees

NATCA members and staff at Honolulu Control Facility (HCF) recently honored a paramedic and several FAA employees whose quick actions saved the life of HCF member Shawn Lorenzo in October.

Shawn Lorenzo, longtime NATCA member at HCF, suffered a heart attack in October while working on the en route side. His colleagues, including a NATCA member Geoff Guillot, and other HCF employees, sprang into action, performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for 15 crucial minutes before paramedics arrived. Once on the scene, the paramedics continued CPR and AED for another 15 minutes, ultimately saving Lorenzo’s life.

The FAA organized the small but important event to recognize the lifesaving efforts of the employees, along with the paramedic, who played a pivotal role in the rescue. Western Pacific Regional Vice President (NWP) Joel Ortiz shared this inspiring story and was proud NATCA members were honored as part of this special occasion.

Shawn Lorenzo, who has recovered and is doing fine, has been a leader in training and emergency response at the facility for two decades. His contribution to the facility’s safety protocols was particularly highlighted during this event. He attended the event to express his gratitude to those who had a hand in saving his life.

Poli Lorenzo (Shawn’s wife) and others were also in attendance to celebrate this remarkable act of teamwork and courage. The event also underscored the importance of emergency training in the workplace, proving that such preparation can indeed save lives. This event stands as a testament to the bravery and quick thinking of the NATCA members, FAA employees, and the paramedic, and serves as a reminder of the critical role of emergency response training in saving lives. Learn more about the Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) committee here.

PHOTO: Pictured, left to right: Poli Lorenzo (Shawn’s wife), Brelis Spillman (Operations Supervisor), Shawn Lorenzo, John Kalama, John Ferguson, Geoff Guillot (HCF NATCA)