The Lesson that Saved a Life: Wylie East Student’s CPR Training Saves Father’s Life

Wylie East freshman Henon Seifu thought it would be just another day in Leah Crossno’s advanced biology class, until one by one, first responders in uniform quietly filed into the room, followed by school and district administrators. 

Unaware that a hero was among them, students were shocked when their lesson was interrupted to celebrate one of their peers. 

Wylie Fire Rescue Chief Brandon Blythe presented Seifu with the "Life Save Award," recognizing her extraordinary actions earlier this year when she called 911 and performed CPR on her father during a medical emergency, actions that ultimately helped save his life.

As the moment unfolded, the very people who had responded that day, including the dispatcher who took her call, stood in the classroom to honor her. Seifu was presented with the award, a challenge coin, and a bag of Wylie Fire Rescue gear, while her classmates watched in awe.

“I feel good about myself knowing I’m the reason that person [her father]  is still here with us,” she said.

Chief Blythe spoke to students about the importance of CPR training, noting that while no one ever imagines needing it, especially for a loved one, it can be the difference between life and death.

For Seifu, that training came just a year earlier in junior high, where all Wylie ISD eighth graders learn CPR and other life-saving skills through athletics or P.E. classes.

“Learning CPR gives students the confidence and ability to act in an emergency instead of feeling helpless,” Burnett Junior High Coach Jessica MacLean said. “It’s a life skill that can truly make a difference.”

MacLean, who was one of the coaches who taught Seifu CPR last year, said she wasn’t surprised by Seifu’s courage.

“I was incredibly proud of Henon,” she said. “She stepped up without hesitation and made a real difference when it mattered most. It’s inspiring to see a student take what they’ve learned and use it to help save a life.”

Chief Blythe also presented challenge coins to MacLean and the other coaches who teach CPR.

Seifu credits the people around her for helping her stay calm in such a critical moment, especially her family.

“He is one of my biggest influences,” she said of her father.

She also emphasized the role her mother played in the life-saving chain of events.

“My mom is my biggest hero,” Seifu said. “She is the reason why he’s here and why I’m here too. If she hadn’t called me downstairs…he wouldn’t be here. My mom deserves all of the things that I got today.”

Seifu expressed gratitude not only to her family but also to all those involved on that day and in her first-aid training.

“I want to thank all my coaches who taught me last year, and specifically Coach Mac and Mrs. [Tiffany] Vensel,” she said. “Thanks to all the firefighters who got there on time, and thanks to all the doctors. I want to thank God for being surrounded with all these people.”

Amy Hillin, Wylie ISD Director of Health Services, also honored Seifu with the district’s Life Saver Award, recognizing her “extraordinary presence of mind” and calmness under pressure.

While the recognition highlighted a single moment, it also underscored a larger impact, one that reaches every student who learns CPR in Wylie ISD.

“I would like to recognize the entire Burnett coaching staff, both boys and girls, for the way they have embraced [CPR training] and recognized the importance of the life lessons we’re teaching,” MacLean said. “Their commitment to this truly makes a difference for our students.”