Stowe honors Marissa Thurston and Lisa Gainaguchi for saving man's life

In a heartfelt moment during the City of Stow Council meeting on June 26, 2025, local heroes Marissa Thurston and Lisa Gainaguchi were recognized for their quick actions that saved a man's life. The incident occurred on June 5 when a 68-year-old man, identified as Bob, collapsed in a parking lot due to cardiac arrest.

Captain Troy Acker of the Stow Fire Department recounted the dramatic events, highlighting how Marissa, who had just finished her shift at Walgreens, sprang into action after noticing Bob lying motionless. With her recent CPR training, she began chest compressions, effectively keeping blood flowing to his vital organs until emergency services arrived. Lisa, who was also present, had already called 911 and provided crucial support.

Bob's recovery was celebrated as a testament to the importance of community involvement in emergencies. "Without these interventions, even the care from a highly skilled EMS crew may fall short," Captain Acker emphasized, urging residents to learn CPR and consider using the PulsePoint app to assist in emergencies.

The city formally acknowledged Marissa and Lisa's bravery, with Mayor Lucinda Stowe expressing gratitude for their selfless actions. Bob, now recovering, humorously noted the physical toll of CPR, thanking Marissa for her efforts while joking about the cracked ribs he sustained.

This incident not only showcased the effectiveness of bystander intervention but also reinforced the vital role of community members in emergency situations. The meeting concluded with a call for residents to engage in CPR training, ensuring that more lives can be saved in the future.