Gretna, Neb. – The city of Gretna celebrated its first‑ever hero award on Nov. 9, recognizing the lifesaving actions of 20‑year‑old veterinary assistant Mora Hunzeker. While working at Paws and Claws Animal Hospital, Hunzeker performed CPR that revived her coworker, veterinary technician Nikki Thompson, after Thompson collapsed on the clinic floor.
Quick thinking saves a life
According to Hunzeker, she noticed Thompson getting up from her chair, then suddenly sitting down and losing consciousness. “She was like, something’s wrong… you need to call an ambulance and then she stopped breathing,” Hunzeker recalled.
With other staff members already administering chest compressions, Hunzeker focused on one goal: keeping Thompson alive. “I don’t really remember. I was just thinking we got to save her,” she said.
Training paid off
Hunzeker’s ability to act swiftly stemmed from a CPR course she completed years earlier at Elkhorn South High School. When asked what her freshman‑year self would think of the situation, she reflected, “I think I would be thinking like, ‘oh that was actually for something.'” The training proved vital, buying Thompson crucial minutes until emergency responders arrived.
Family gratitude
Thompson, who is a mother of two, expressed deep gratitude for the extra time she now has with her children. “I can’t imagine a day without them, and to be given so many more memories to make with them means everything to me,” she said.
First hero award presented
Mayor Mike Evans presented Hunzeker with the inaugural Gretna Hero Award, a new municipal honor created to spotlight extraordinary acts of bravery and service within the community. The ceremony highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and the value of local heroes who step up when needed.
Future plans
Hunzeker, who is currently pursuing a degree at the University of Nebraska Omaha, said her next goal is to attend veterinary school after completing her current studies. She hopes to continue serving animals and people alike, drawing on the same dedication that saved a coworker’s life.
Community response
The story has resonated throughout Gretna, with residents praising both Hunzeker’s quick action and the city’s decision to recognize everyday heroism. Local schools and organizations are already planning to promote CPR training, hoping to empower more citizens with life‑saving skills.
This developing story will be updated as more details become available. For further information, photos, or video, readers can contact the 3 News Now newsroom.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
