Oliver Summers’ bravery was celebrated on Wednesday as community members and first responders, arriving in their response vehicles and apparatus, gathered outside the Piper Building in Lock Haven to recognize his heroic actions with heartfelt tributes, gifts and awards.

On Saturday, Nov. 9, Ollie discovered his mom, Gena, unresponsive in the bathroom and instantly realized something was wrong. With his father, Steve, out of town, Ollie’s first instinct was to call him for help. Steve urged Ollie to either head to the EMS station next door or seek assistance from their neighbor, Mr. Jim.

Despite not being properly dressed for the chilly weather, Ollie stayed calm and went to the neighbors for help. They quickly contacted emergency services, ensuring assistance arrived promptly. Ollie even provided EMS personnel with key details about his mother, helping them deliver the care that ultimately saved her life.

When Oliver’s parents discovered Gena was facing some health issues, they had multiple discussions to make sure he was prepared in the event of an emergency. Their proactivity exemplifies the importance of teaching children emergency preparedness and how to seek help when necessary.

HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS Alvin Stoltzfus, at left, and Heidi Wright, at right, give Ollie Summers awards for his bravery, as Gena Wilson, center left, looks on.

“Ollie, we are all here today to tell you how proud we are of you,” said District Judge Heidi Wright. “Without your knowledge of knowing what to do in this emergency situation, there absolutely could have been a different outcome today. You played a vital role in saving your mom’s life — we are so proud of you!”

Wright, Alvin Stoltzfus of Goodwill Hose Ambulance and Clinton County Department of Emergency Services Director Jonathan Plessinger all offered remarks, expressing gratitude to Ollie, the first responders from Flemington Goodwill Hose Company Ambulance Station 21 and everyone else who assisted Gena.

Representatives from Eastside Fire and Rescue, Citizens Hose Company #5, Goodwill Hose Company Fire Department, Goodwill Hose Company Ambulance, Woolrich Volunteer Fire Company, Dunnstown Fire Company, Castanea Fire Company, Chapman Township Fire Company, Clinton County Department of Emergency Services, Pa. State Police at Lamar, Lock Haven City Police, Keystone Central School District Police, Clinton County Sheriff Department, Mill Hall Volunteer Fire Company and Clinton County Commissioners, who were all inspired by Oliver’s story, came out in a big way to celebrate his courage.

Oliver was presented with a trophy, a certificate, a stuffed dinosaur larger than himself and more by the attendees for his heroics.

Plessinger said, “This recognition can inspire other children and families in our community to prioritize safety and awareness, while also highlighting the vital role emergency services play in protecting and supporting our residents.”

HUNTER SMITH/THE EXPRESS Ollie, center, stands beside family and first responders outside of the Piper Building in Lock Haven, who gathered to celebrate his life-saving actions on Nov. 9.