C. Oregon Heroes Honored at Red Cross Breakfast

They are people we encounter every day in our community. Men and women who say they’re not, but are heroes in many different ways.

Of the 200 people packed in the Riverhouse Convention Center Wednesday morning for the eighth annual American Red Cross Heroes’ Breakfast, eight made their way to the stage, recognized for their compassion and bravery.

Last spring, Leo Gonzalez of Redmond witnessed a car crash involving three cars right before his eyes on Highway 97. He slammed on his brakes, rushed to the scene and was the first to help the driver, pinned inside.

“The first thing I noticed was she had a cut on her head and so I applied pressure and tried to keep her as calm as I could,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez didn’t leave her side until help finally arrived.

“I stayed with her until the sheriffs officer showed up, and even then he asked me to stay with her until the ambulance came,” he added.

A good Samaritan turned hero in the blink of an eye — the same can be said for Redmond police Officer Tyler Kirk.

“Really it wasn’t anything special. I was just doing my job,” Kirk said.

He may think that, but when he noticed a house on fire one morning in December ,he jumped into action. Pounding on the front door, Kirk helped a family with a brand new baby escape unharmed.

“They just couldn’t believe what was going on, and they had a baby, and were just so relieved that we got them out of the house in time,” Kirk added.

These are everyday people, proving you don’t have to wear a cape to be a hero.

“I never considered myself a hero,” Kirk said. “My hero has always been my dad, and I’m just honored to even be considered.”

“I hope more people can jump to it like I did and help somebody when they are in need like that,” Gonzalez said.

The other heroes honored Wednesdayt:

Bobbie Bourne — Served faithfully for 12 years as the Red Cross Emergency Services Director for Central Oregon

Lyle & Judy Hicks — Owners/operators of Jake’s Diner, support multiple community and charitable efforts.

Dr. Randy Jacobs, Dr. Anita Kolisch & Joan Goodwin — Helped establish and operate the Mobile Medical Unit serving the homeless.