A 13-year old hero inspired by the American animation series SpongeBob SquarePants saved his classmate from certain danger. Barnes Intermediate School's student Brandon Williams, who is diagnosed with autism, was having lunch in the school cafeteria when he noticed that his classmate Jessica Pellegrino was in trouble. Jessica was choking on a piece of apple.
Brandon quickly got to his feet to deliver a Heimlich maneuver on Jessica. The arms that encircled and pushed against her diaphragm effectively dislodged the fruit piece that was blocking Jessica's air passage.
The boy's rescue was a stunning surprise to all who witnessed the incident. When Brandon was asked how he knew how to apply the first aid procedure, his answer was even more surprising: "Learned it on SpongeBob SquarePants."
When he was asked if he could remember which episode this was from, Brandon correctly recalled the episode where SpongeBob SquarePants choked on a chocolate piece.
Brandon's paraprofessional, retired NYPD Officer Brian Griffin, who helps Brandon in his special-needs class proudly said of his charge:
"The cafeteria is always very noisy, but I heard the kids calling me. I was ready to jump in, but Brandon had it. He was amazing. I've never seen anything like it. Some people may have preconceived notions about autism, but these kids are intelligent, loving, just amazing kids."
Indeed the school authorities could not agree more with Officer Griffin as they themselves were surprised to find that a boy with Brandon's condition had such special abilities. This was confirmed by Brandon's parents saying that Brandon has an amazing memory.
Proud father Anthony Williams says that Brandon is able to zero in on details that most people would miss, store these away in his memory and call them to mind very quickly when needed.
Jessica and Brandon have become better friends, even inseparable, after the rescue. Of her friend and hero, Jessica says that he is "awesome and cute."
A few adults from the school suggested rewarding Brandon for his good deed, but the modest hero declined and said he did not need any medal.
