It was just another Monday morning at Surathampitak School in the bustling city of Nakhon Ratchasima when the unthinkable happened—a ninth-grade student suddenly collapsed in the classroom. Panic was quick to spread among students, but three brave twelfth-graders stepped up to the plate, saving a life and becoming local heroes overnight. The incident, which took place around 9am, has since gone viral, lighting up social media and filling the community with pride.
Meet Jirapat Srisawang, fondly known as Tonkla, Kittiphop Khaisai, aka Prite, and Rattaphum Khajornsathit, nicknamed Pun. These three incredible students vividly remember how it all unfolded. One minute, the class was focused on their morning lessons—a typical start to the school day—and the next, it was a scene of chaos. Fortunately, their instincts and training kicked in as they saw their ninth-grade peer lying unresponsive on the floor.
With invaluable quick thinking, they sprang into action. Realizing their friend was not breathing and had no discernible pulse, they retrieved an oxygen tank and proceeded to administer CPR. The trio had completed basic life-saving training through the school and were also keen emergency response volunteers—a decisive factor that enabled them to handle the delicate situation with impressive poise.
Working in seamless rotation, Tonkla, Prite, and Pun performed chest compressions for more than 30 critical minutes. Their unyielding determination paid off when the student finally showed signs of life, taking deep breaths on his own. It was a moment of collective relief not only for the heroic rescuers but for everyone watching, as the ninth-grader was quickly rushed to Suranaree Camp Hospital. There, he received the medical attention needed and is fortunately now reported to be in stable condition.
The heroic actions of these seniors did not go unnoticed by their school principal, Sarawut Chaemmuangpak, who showered them with praise. He emphasized their bravery and highlighted the essential nature of first aid education. “Our students have proven that CPR training is not just another school activity but a critical life skill,” Mr. Sarawut noted, advocating for the ongoing inclusion of regular CPR sessions in the school’s curriculum.
News of the incident spread like wildfire across social media platforms, capturing the hearts of countless people far beyond the local community. Netizens flooded the internet with heartfelt commendations, emphasizing the indispensable role of CPR skills in emergency scenarios. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of not only the fragility of life but also the profound impact of being prepared to act in an emergency.
In an age when acts of heroism and genuine altruism inspire and unite us, the courageous deeds of Tonkla, Prite, and Pun offer a beacon of hope. Their quick response and dedication affirm that the power to save lives often rests within our hands—awaiting that moment when the knowledge and skills we’ve acquired are put to the ultimate test.
Heroes like Tonkla, Prite, and Pun make me believe in the younger generation. CPR training should be mandatory in all schools!
Totally agree! How many lives could be saved if everyone knew CPR? It’s an essential skill.
It’s not just about having the skills, it’s about having the confidence to use them in an emergency situation. Kudos to these kids!
But should we really force everyone to learn CPR? What about students who panic easily or might not even be physically capable?
It’s about giving everyone the chance to learn. Every student won’t perform CPR, but those who can will be prepared.
Great to see the emphasis on CPR but let’s also focus on getting more defibrillators installed where they can be easily accessed in schools!
Defibrillators are expensive. Not every school can afford those.
True, but there are grants available, and their presence can literally make the difference between life and death.
Seeing young people rise to the occasion is wonderful, but let’s not forget the teachers. Should their role be more proactive in emergency training?
Teachers already have so much on their plates. We can spread the responsibility to trained students too.
Empowering both teachers and students in emergency response wouldn’t hurt. It’s a shared responsibility.
Wow, 30 minutes of CPR is a lot! These kids must have really been dedicated. Makes you think, would adults have done the same?
Honestly, sometimes kids show more courage and determination than adults, don’t they?
CPR should definitely be a part of the curriculum everywhere, but what about mental health training too?
I think it’s great that this ended well, but we should be careful with the heroic narrative. CPR doesn’t always work—could set unrealistic expectations.
Stories like this one are important reminders of how essential it is to know what to do in emergencies. What gets me is the rapid spread of such uplifting stories across social media!
The internet’s a powerful tool. It spreads more positivity than we sometimes admit.
Quick thinking and bravery, that’s unusual for kids their age. How did they remain so calm?
This story fills me with hope. Let’s make sure more schools emphasize life skills like CPR. It’s called life-saving for a reason!
Too idealistic, perhaps? Schools have limited time and resources; we can’t fit everything in.
It’s all about priorities. If we value it enough, we’ll find a way.
It’s fantastic to see young people not only educated but also willing to act. These teens showed unparalleled courage.
Hats off to the educators too! Hopefully, these kids inspire more stories of everyday heroism.
Let’s not forget the feelings of those who were watching but couldn’t do anything themselves. Could their emotional distress be a point of focus?