provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The Sanibel Captiva Business Women’s Association honored the heroic efforts of the Sanibel Fire Rescue team during its monthly luncheon held on February 25 in honor of Heart Month. The monthly luncheon, hosted at the Sanibel Community House, brought together SCBWA members and guests who learned of the life-saving actions of the Fire Rescue team and celebrated the story of one of their most grateful citizens, Kay Casperson.
Casperson, a renowned skin care, beauty, and wellness professional, and owner of Kay Casperson Spa located at the Sundial Beach Resort, shared her personal experience publicly for the first time of experiencing a heart attack at her Sanibel home in June 2024. Thanks to the quick and decisive actions of her husband, Trevor Nette, their daughter, and the prompt response from Sanibel Fire Rescue team members LT Brian Howell, FF/Paramedic Mike Tejeda, and FF/EMT Ed Zarick, Casperson was given a second chance at life.
“Without the heroic efforts of these individuals, I would not be standing here today,” said Casperson, who was visibly moved by the presence of the first responders who helped save her life. “If you ever don’t feel well, don’t be alone; if you know something isn’t right, insist your doctor look further; above all else, pray,” she added.
Councilwoman Laura DeBruce introduced Assistant Chief Chris Jackson, who recounted the day the call came in for a medical emergency at the Casperson/Nette home. Jackson explained the Fire Rescue team’s immediate plan of action and the critical coordination that went into their rapid response. It was an emotional moment for the team, as they don’t often have the opportunity to meet the individuals they help.
“It was a privilege to meet Kay, hear her story, and know that our training, teamwork, and dedication made a real difference,” said LT Howell.
In recognition of their exceptional efforts, the team was honored with the Phoenix Award, a prestigious accolade given to those who demonstrate the highest standards of skill, courage, and teamwork in life-threatening situations. The Phoenix Award symbolizes resilience and triumph, drawing from the mythological phoenix that rises stronger from its ashes. Assistant Chief Jackson shared the significance of the award, emphasizing its role in recognizing not just the heroism of first responders but the positive outcomes that result from their work.
In addition to the recognition, the Sanibel Fire Department and SCBWA announced an exciting collaboration this spring, when the Fire Rescue team will offer a CPR training course to SCBWA members and friends. This partnership aims to empower local businesswomen with life-saving skills that can make all the difference in emergency situations.
The SCBWA is a vibrant organization that supports and connects professional as well as retired business women across Sanibel and Captiva, providing resources, education, mentorship, scholarships and networking opportunities to empower women in business and leadership.
For more information about the Sanibel Captiva Business Women’s Association or to register for the upcoming CPR course, please visit the Facebook page @SCBWA. The March 25 meeting will feature the women of history on the islands.