Mom Thanks 'Angel' Teacher Who Saved Son from Choking

New Lenox, IL — Laura McDonnell raced to her son’s school when she got the phone call.

Her 8-year-old son Austin had been opening a water bottle with his teeth, when he inhaled the lid and began choking. His teacher Nancy Mistro didn’t hesitate, and performed the Heimlich Maneuver to dislodge the cap.

“I couldn’t get to the school fast enough to hug him and see if he was okay,” McDonnell said. ”You could tell he was traumatized by the whole thing.”

Nelson Prairie third grade teacher Mistro noticed Austin in distress, and first tried patting the object loose. She then tried the Heimlich, unsuccessfully the first two pumps. The third worked, and Austin could breathe.

“I am so grateful that she reacted so quickly,” McDonnell said.

The family moved to New Lenox this year from the Chicago community of Mt. Greenwood, and was relieved at the school’s procedures during the emergency.

“I am extremely happy on how they handled the situation,” she said. “I think we will stay.”

Her son’s story could have had a tragic outcome, and she took to social media to share it with other parents. Children of any age can choke on small objects, she warned.

“I just want to spread the awareness to others because it can happen to anyone,” she said, ”and to show how amazing our teachers are who go above and beyond for their students.”

Though startled, Austin was home safe and recovering Monday afternoon. McDonnell sent Mistro flowers in appreciation.

“Thank God for the angel in his classroom,” McDonnell posted on social media. “Not only do our teachers teach our children, they are also saving lives.”