When Steve Cossette and his son, Christian, hopped in their pickup one day in May, 2008, it seemed like a typical day. Before running errands, they stopped at the gas station. Steve picked up a hot dog and Christian chose a pizza.

After driving a few minutes, Steve felt Christian kicking the back of his seat. At first Steve figured that Christian was just moving around. As the kicking continued, Steve struggled to get a look at his son. He was sitting directly behind him in the cab so it was hard to see. Finally, Steve caught a glimpse of his son and was shocked to see Christian’s mouth was turning blue and he was attempting to gasp for air. He was choking.

Instinct and CPR training kicked in and Steve pulled off of the interstate and down into the ditch, to avoid traffic. Steve jumped out of the pickup and struggled to get Christian out of his seatbelt. He was still moving and kicking in a panic. Steve freed Christian from the restraints and pulled him out into the ditch. He wrapped his arms around Christian from behind and gave him two thrusts, trying to break loose what was lodged in his son’s throat. It didn’t work.

Steve ran back to the interstate to flag someone down to help. No one stopped. He returned to his son, who appeared as though he was close to passing out, and tried another thrust. This time, liquid came out of his mouth. Steve attempted the “finger sweep” and got some of the lodged cheese from Christian’s throat. Christian started crying. At the sound of his cries Steve knew his son could breathe and would be okay.

Steve credits the CPR and safety training he received at work. He says he never thought he would have to use the skills he learned in these classes, but is so glad he had them.