A Taco Bell manager performed a lifesaving act on a baby that suddenly turned blue in the drive-thru.
Natasha Long, after a quick stop at the pharmacy, found herself craving tacos as she headed home with her 11-week-old son. Little did she know that this spontaneous urge would lead to a life-saving chain of events.
While waiting in line at the Richboro Taco Bell on a Saturday, Long heard her baby, Myles, make a troubling gasping sound. Concerned, she parked her car and hurried to check on him, only to find him unresponsive and in distress.
Inside the restaurant, manager Becky Arbaugh was busy with her duties when she heard a scream, followed by urgent calls to dial 911. Without hesitation, Arbaugh rushed to Long's aid as she realized the gravity of the situation: a baby was in dire need of help.
Taco Bell Manager Saves Baby's Life in Drive-Thru Emergency
Arbaugh, a mother of four, swiftly took charge. She reassured Long and then took the baby, immediately recognizing the severity of his condition. Myles was visibly struggling, his complexion turning alarming shades of blue.
Drawing on her CPR training from years past, acquired after a similar scare with one of her own children, Arbaugh sprang into action. Despite never having performed CPR before, she remained calm and focused, administering chest compressions with precision and determination.
After what felt like an eternity, Myles responded. His breath returned, his eyes opened, and he let out a cry-a small but significant victory in a moment of crisis.
Reflecting on the experience, Arbaugh described a sense of calm washing over her, driving her singular focus on ensuring the baby's survival.
The weight of the situation only fully hit her later, prompting a moment of emotional release as she explained the incident to her boss and temporarily closed the drive-thru. The Taco Bell manager consumed a 10-minute break to recollect herself after the said traumatic incident and immediately went back to the food line to finish her regular shift for the day.
She stated, "It was like a calm came over me. I can't describe it." And added, "the only thought in my head was to keep her calm and get the baby breathing again. I knew he was going to breathe again."
The Infant's Long Road To Recovery
Myles was admitted to St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, where he is currently in the pediatric ICU, breathing independently and responsively, as shared by Long.
Medical professionals are diligently investigating the cause behind Myles' sudden breathing difficulties, a situation unprecedented in his history, noted Long, who also cares for a 3-year-old daughter.
Just a fortnight ago, Myles underwent surgery to address an airway condition diagnosed shortly after birth, a procedure that preceded another scheduled surgery slated for the upcoming week, Long disclosed. She expressed the daunting path ahead for Myles, anticipating months of recovery and ongoing medical care.
To alleviate the mounting financial strain from medical bills and associated expenses, the family initiated a GoFundMe campaign seeking support from the community, underscoring the potential gravity of the situation had it not been for Arbaugh's timely intervention.
Expressing gratitude for Arbaugh's pivotal role, Long remarked, "We could have faced a tragic outcome if not for Becky's presence and quick actions."
In recognition of her heroic deed, Taco Bell's corporate office released a statement commending Arbaugh's swift response and compassionate demeanor during the crisis. The accolade highlighted her dedication and kindness, reflecting the sentiments of both the company and the local community.
Arbaugh and Long, brought together by this extraordinary event, have forged a strong bond, communicating regularly and fostering a friendship that extends beyond their initial encounter.
The outpouring of appreciation from patrons, both regular and new, at the Taco Bell location has been profound, with many expressing gratitude directly to Arbaugh for her life-saving intervention.
Despite the spotlight on her actions, Arbaugh remains modest, attributing her actions to a simple desire to assist a fellow parent in need. She humbly deflects the label of hero, emphasizing her role as a compassionate individual responding to a critical situation.
