Knoxville Pharmacist John Duncan Honored with Angel Award

Pharmacist administering CPR in a pharmacy

News Summary

John Duncan, a pharmacist at Kroger in Knoxville, has been awarded the Angel Award for his quick response in a life-threatening emergency. Last December, Duncan performed CPR on a customer who collapsed in the store. His actions not only saved a life but also underscored the significant impact individuals can have in their communities. The award reflects Kroger’s initiative to recognize employees who make a difference. Duncan’s bravery has inspired many to learn basic lifesaving skills.

Knoxville Pharmacist John Duncan Receives Angel Award for Life-Saving CPR Action

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee – In a heartwarming tale of quick thinking and bravery, John Duncan, a compassionate pharmacist at Kroger’s Bearden location, has been honored with the prestigious Angel Award for his life-saving efforts during a recent emergency. The incident, which unfolded just last December, is a vivid reminder of how ordinary people can rise to meet extraordinary challenges.

A Shocking Collapse

The day started off like any other for Duncan as he went about his duties at the pharmacy. However, everything changed in an instant when he witnessed a customer, Debbie Wood, suddenly collapse right in front of him. The chaotic scene unfolded quickly, and before anyone could process what was happening, Duncan sprang into action.

Heroic CPR Efforts

Evident in his demeanor was the training and calm of a professional. Without hesitation, Duncan began performing CPR on Wood, whose life was hanging in the balance. The seconds felt like hours as he worked tirelessly, his goal clear: to restore her heartbeat and keep her alive until emergency medical technicians arrived. The urgency of the moment was palpable, and Duncan’s steadfast commitment to saving a life shone through.

Uncertainty and Relief

Once the medics arrived and took over, Duncan felt a sense of uncertainty wash over him as he watched Wood leave the store for treatment. Questions loomed in his mind: Would she survive? What could he have done differently? Ironically, the whirlwind of emotions kept him on edge in the days that followed.

However, as the days passed, a shift occurred. The pharmacy began receiving several thank you calls and messages from the community, with many people expressing gratitude for the quick actions of their local pharmacist. Duncan’s heart filled with hope as he learned from these interactions that Wood had not only survived, but was recovering well.

The Recognition

In recognition of his incredible actions, on Tuesday, Kroger officially honored Duncan with the coveted Angel Award. This award is part of a broader initiative by the grocery giant to celebrate employees who go above and beyond to make a significant difference in their communities. Duncan stood proud, knowing that his response in a critical moment not only helped save a life but also ignited a ripple of positivity across the entire neighborhood.

A Community’s Heart

The award not only acknowledges Duncan’s heroism but also showcases the profound impact individuals can have on their community. Kroger has emphasized the importance of recognizing those who perform beyond the call of duty, and Duncan’s story is a shining example of that ethos.

Duncan’s courage serves as a reminder to us all that, sometimes, being in the right place at the right time, coupled with the willingness to act, can change the course of someone’s life. It’s inspiring to see how a simple act of kindness, such as performing CPR, can resonate so deeply within a community.

As he continues his work at Kroger, there’s no doubt that John Duncan will carry this experience with him, potentially inspiring others to learn CPR and be prepared to act in emergencies. His story underlines a beautiful truth: In moments of crisis, a hero can emerge from the most unlikely places. So next time you shop at Kroger, remember that your neighborhood pharmacist could be a lifesaver, just like John Duncan.