Heroic Girl Scout, 14, Rescues Little Brother with Quick Thinking

Exceptional Community Hospital in Maricopa is celebrating the heroism of a local 14-year-old girl scout, Estrella Vaca, whose quick thinking saved her younger brother during a medical emergency.

Dr. Timothy Johns, the emergency room physician on duty, recounted the events that unfolded on the night of July 18. As their mother slept, Estrella’s 6-year-old brother, Isaiah, experienced a seizure. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Estrella showcased remarkable composure and took immediate action.

Dr. Johns praised Estrella for her decisive response. “She rolled her brother onto his side to ensure his safety and then woke their mother to alert her of the incident,” he explained. Despite having no formal training in seizure care, Estrella’s instinctual actions were critical in getting Isaiah the help he needed.

Throughout the journey to the hospital, she continued to monitor Isaiah’s breathing and heart rate. “Thanks to Estrella’s rapid response, Isaiah had a fighting chance,” Dr. Johns emphasized. He highlighted her abilities as emblematic of the leadership, courage, and compassion that the Girl Scouts aim to cultivate in their members.

Dr. Johns has formally recommended Estrella for the Girl Scouts’ Lifesaving Award, stating, “Her bravery and quick response in a time of crisis are a testament to her character and the skills she has developed as a girl scout.”