In Lehigh Acres, Florida, a life-and-death situation unfolded inside a home when a 1-year-old girl suddenly stopped breathing and became unresponsive. Thanks to the quick thinking and CPR skills of a Lee County deputy, this toddler got a second chance at life — a powerful reminder of why CPR training matters in every community.

A Life Saved Inside a Family Home

On October 28, 2025, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at a residence where a baby girl — later identified as Catalina — had stopped breathing and was unresponsive. Upon arrival, Deputy Curtis Redford quickly assessed the situation and immediately began performing CPR on the little girl while other responders prepared additional medical support.

Deputy Redford’s fast response — starting chest compressions right away — helped Catalina begin breathing on her own before emergency medical services (EMS) arrived at the scene. Her family later expressed deep gratitude for the deputy’s actions and highlighted the importance of CPR awareness among parents and caregivers.

Why This Florida CPR Story Matters

Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies Can Happen at Any Age

Although it’s more common to associate cardiac arrests and breathing emergencies with adults, children and infants can experience sudden life-threatening events — like complications from febrile seizures, choking, or underlying medical conditions. Catalina’s case shows that when every second counts, immediate action matters.

Immediate CPR Buys Crucial Time

When someone — especially a child — stops breathing and loses a pulse, oxygen stops reaching vital organs within minutes. CPR keeps blood flowing to the brain and heart until professional help arrives, dramatically improving chances of survival.

Law Enforcement as First Responders Can Make Lifesaving Differences

Deputies, police officers, and other first responders often arrive before EMS in urgent emergencies. Deputy Redford’s rapid initiation of CPR underscores why CPR skills are essential not just for medical professionals but for anyone who might be first on the scene.

How Florida Families Can Be Prepared

This inspiring story is more than uplifting — it’s instructional. It highlights the value of having CPR knowledge and readiness before an emergency happens:

• Learn Infant & Child CPR Techniques
  Babies and children require different compression depth and rhythms than adults — and training ensures you know the correct method.
• Stay Calm & Act Quickly
  A well-practiced response can turn panic into lifesaving action when precious minutes matter most.
• Encourage CPR Training Across Your Community
  From parents to teachers, caregivers to neighbors, CPR training empowers everyday people to save lives.

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Ready to Act When It Matters Most?

Catalina’s survival isn’t just a news headline — it’s a testament to the power of knowing what to do before help arrives.

👉 Take an In-Pulse CPR course in Florida — get hands-on training in infant, child, and adult CPR + AED use. Build the confidence and ability you need to respond quickly in an emergency.

Your training could be the reason someone gets a second chance at life.