McLean First Responders Reunite With Girl They Saved

MCLEAN, VA -- May 21-27 marks EMS Week, and McLean first responders had a meaningful way to celebrate. Firefighters and first responders recently met with Delaney Saslav, a girl they saved five years, and her family.

Five years ago, Saslav, then three years old, fell into a pool, and her heart and breathing stopped. Firefighters and paramedics arrived on the scene and brought her back.

(Sign up for real time alerts and a newsletter. iPhone users can download the Patch app in the App Store. Plus, like McLean Patch on Facebook.)

A doctor later said that she had likely been without oxygen for a few minutes. Her father and a friend performed CPR until first responders arrived, which the doctor said was life-saving. She suffered a brain injury and stayed in the hospital for five months after the accident.

In 2013, Saslav received one of MedStar National Rehabilitation Network's Victory Award, given to those showing strength and courage in the face of physical adversity.

The family stopped by the McLean station to say goodbye before they moved. Some of the firefighters that responded that day were present for the reunion. The firefighters gave her a heart-shaped necklace and other gifts to remember them by.

Retired firefighter Karrie Leigh Boswell wrote in a blog post that Saslav has inspired the crew to remember how precious life is.

"Mom and Dad, Jill and Andy, always tell us we are their heroes. The opposite is true for us. Delaney and her family are our heroes," she wrote. "To see this little girl running, laughing, and playing with her little brother Ian in the fire house this day was a heartfelt and humbling experience."

Images via Fairfax County Fire and Rescue