At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, we frequently discuss the concept of being a community, looking out for one another, being present during critical moments, and acting with care and compassion. Recently, four of our staff members exemplified OCSB's Be Community values perfectly.
Kayla Collins, Terry Donegan, Robin Jordan, and Laura Bethune didn't know the man who needed help. But they didn't need to. He was a member of the OCSB family. When they heard someone in distress, they immediately responded. The man had experienced a seizure, followed by cardiac arrest. Their quick actions calling 911, beginning CPR, and using a nearby defibrillator helped save his life before first responders arrived.
They didn't just react. They acted with clarity, calm, and deep care. In a moment of crisis, they became a bridge between fear and safety, between uncertainty and hope.
Their teamwork and presence of mind reflect the best of who we are as a Catholic School Board. They didn't do it for recognition. They did it because it was the right thing to do. When you're part of a community that values dignity and well-being, helping isn't a question it's a calling.
We are grateful to Kayla, Terry, Robin, and Laura. Their actions nourished not only a new beginning for the man they helped, but also a renewed sense of what it means to live out our values in real and meaningful ways.
