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OC Girl, 17, Receives '911 Youth Hero Award' For Saving Her Dad's Life

BREA (CBSLA.com) — A 17-year-old Orange County girl Tuesday received the 2013 911 Youth Hero award.

Samantha Swisher was honored at the 2013 International 911 Heroes Awards Ceremony, which took place at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Swisher called 911 on April 13 after her father collapsed on the track at Brea Olinda High School.

"We were running the mile just like normal. My dad is very athletic; he's always been in shape," Swisher said.

The dispatcher transferred her to Metro Net for medic services, who talked her through instructions while police were en route.

Swisher, who had been recently trained in CPR, was actively administering it to her father by the time medics arrived on scene.

"I just knew that that was the only way things were going to get done and if there were any chance of my dad staying alive. I was thinking, 'He has to see my graduate, he has to see me go to prom,'" she recalled.

The 911 Local Heroes Medal of Honor is given to someone who distinguishes themselves by calling 911 to help save a life or property.

"I don't know if I could have done what she did. I think I would have called 911 and just stood there," her father, Gary Swisher, said.

He is now healthy after undergoing heart surgery, but Swisher says the frightening incident has inspired her.

"I'm actually looking into taking my EMT courses right now because that's the first step to becoming a firefighter. My interest piqued after saving my dad's life," she said.

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