Author: Mike Matzinger
Emmaleigh Clark, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing student at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, has received the prestigious National Certificate of Merit from the National Court of Honor of Scouting America. The award recognizes extraordinary acts of heroism and skill, and Clark earned the distinction for saving a man’s life during a backpacking trip in the summer of 2023.
While leading a group of Scouts at Philmont Scout Ranch, Clark sprang into action when she was alerted to a possible heart attack victim nearby. Drawing on her wilderness nursing knowledge, she quickly assessed the man’s condition, administered aspirin, monitored his vitals using Apple Watches, and improvised lifesaving care with camping supplies until emergency services arrived 90 minutes later.
“It was one of the most traumatic moments of my life,” Clark recalled. “But it confirmed my path in nursing.”
Clark’s bravery and swift thinking not only saved a life but also earned her national recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to becoming a nurse.
https://nursing.utexas.edu/news/nursing-student-honored-lifesaving-action-wilderness-trek
