11/08/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19nCWiSRza/?mibextid=wwXIfr
HERO ALERT: A 16-year-old New Jersey girl saved a 3-WEEK-OLD BABY'S LIFE using CPR skills she had learned just TWO DAYS earlier.
Ariana Leonardis, an 11th grader from Little Egg Harbor, was walking through Tuckerton with her 15-year-old cousin, Ryley Porter, on October 24 when they heard a couple desperately screaming for help.
The parents' newborn had suddenly stopped breathing during a feeding, and despite a language barrier, Ariana quickly recognized the emergency and asked permission to help.
She immediately began performing chest compressions and back blows while Ryley called 911.
Her efforts worked, and the infant began breathing again before first responders arrived. Emergency personnel confirmed the baby had recovered and thanked Ariana for stepping in.
What makes this rescue even more remarkable is that Ariana had JUST completed her CPR training just 48 HOURS EARLIER through the Human Development & Child Care Program at Ocean County Vocational Technical School's Brick Center, which she attends alongside Pinelands Regional High School.
Ariana said she understood the importance of CPR but never imagined she would need to use it so soon.
“It's very relieving and shocking that I saved someone's life, especially because of how young the baby was,” she said.
Her instructor praised her calmness and bravery, and Ariana later received a Random Act of Kindness Award for her actions.
While so many teenagers make headlines for the wrong reasons, Ariana's quick thinking and willingness to help gave a newborn baby a second chance at life.
THIS is the kind of young person who deserves recognition!
