That's a very interesting point- when the woman's boss showed up at the scene, I'd already dislodged it. He's not a big guy, but does work out. He said he would have been worried about hurting me or breaking a rib.
I've taken CPR about - oh, 10 or eleven times. Invariably, in every class, people are worried about cracking ribs. Helloooo!!!! If someone needs CPR or the Heimlich, they are dead or in a situation where they may die! Don't worry about ribs. And chances are, if you are doing either of these, you WILL crack cartilage, bruise the victim at best, and crack ribs. But you are also saving a life. Ribs heal.
Jessica- I made a ball out of my fists, placed them under my sternum, and came down on my fists (and chest) on the chair and file cabinets as I think denver described. I have a bruise,
Grapes were a success!
Thanks for your concern, everyone. Now go take a CPR class that includes AED training and find out where your office AED is. Lobby for one if you don't have one. It's much more effective at saving people.
Mel
I can't believe that no one knew how to do the Heimlich, I just wonder if it's more that no one wanted to make the mistake of doing it incorrectly. Hmmm, interesting concept for a social psychologist to expound upon. I recall something about this during one of my classes back in the day... Thanks for posting this. It serves many lessons, mindful eating, and reminding us all to be THE ONE who takes the initiative when no one else will especially when a life is at stake.
