Great-Granddaughter, 7, Hailed as Hero to Oak Forest Woman

An Oak Forest woman can’t stop boasting about her great-granddaughter.

Rosemary Girten fell down in her Oak Forest home Jan. 28, and it was the quick thinking of her 7-year-old great-granddaughter Shaina that ensured she got the care she needed.

“Shaina was the only one with her at home,” said John Snipes, Principal of Arbury Hills School in Mokena, where Shaina attends. ”Without anyone else around, she knew exactly what to do! She ran upstairs and called 911; she gave them all the information including her great grandmother’s name and address in Oak Forest.”

Great-grandmother Rosemary is still recovering in the hospital.

“She has been telling the story of how her 7-year-old great-granddaughter is her guardian angel!” Snipes said.

Shaina has been unable to see her great grandmother due to age restrictions at the hospital, but she has spoken with her on the telephone.

The Mokena second-grader’s actions have earned her the title of ”hero” among her classmates and teachers.

“We are all so proud of her; everyone in the family is just amazed at the fact she knew what to do, acted without hesitation, and remained calm until the firemen and EMTs arrived,” said Shaina’s mother, Christina Girten. “Her great-grandmother is bragging about her to everyone in the hospital.”

Snipes and teacher Lisa Dunn are also proud of her actions and quick thinking. Shaina was showered with hugs and high-five in recognition of a job well done.

Students at Arbury Hills receive regular fire prevention and safety instruction through the Frankfort Fire Department.