Southwest Virginia dispatcher honored for saving man’s life over phone

ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL) – A Washington County, Virginia dispatcher has been chosen to receive an award from the American Red Cross for her life-saving actions.

According to a Washington County Virginia Sheriff’s Office news release, communications officer Frances Flanary was selected to receive the 2024 American Red Cross 911 Dispatch Hero within the American Red Cross Chapter of Southwest Virginia.

The honor is given to dispatchers who save lives, act courageously and inspire their communities.

“Dispatcher Flanary did that in October 2023 when she received a call that an elderly man needed assistance,” the release said.

The 78-year-old man was unresponsive and desperate for medical attention, the sheriff’s office reported.

Flanary provided instructions for CPR to the caller while on the phone, and the caller and another adult worked to keep the unresponsive man alive. Flanary remained on the line, assuring the callers throughout the ordeal, according to the sheriff’s office.

Flanary was successful at calming the situation and helping over the phone.

“Thanks to Dispatcher Flanary, the caller stated his friend was breathing,” the release said.

“We are excited about Dispatcher Flanary’s selection as the 2024 American Red Cross 911 Dispatch Hero,” Washington County Sheriff Blake Andis stated in the release. “Frances consistently exhibits exceptional work performance and is dedicated to her role as a dispatcher. Her calm demeanor and willingness to help have aided countless callers. Washington County is lucky to have her!”

Flanary will receive the award in April at an event honoring local heroes.

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