Pasadena Lifeguard Honored by Red Cross

The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region honored a Rose Bowl Aquatic Center lifeguard on Tuesday.

In December, Matt Juranek saved a man’s life during a cardiorespiratory emergency.

Juranek, a Red Cross trained lifeguard, was on duty at the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center when a swimmer experienced a cardiorespiratory emergency.
Responding quickly, Juranek dove in the pool, took hold of the man in crisis and removed him from the water safely before initiating chest compressions. Emergency medical responders arrived shortly after and continued care.

“With summer upon us, we hope that Matt’s story will inspire everyone to take the necessary actions needed, to keep themselves and their family safe around water this summer,” said Erica Frausto, executive director of the Red Cross serving the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valley. “We need more heroes in the community, who are trained and ready to act. This is an invitation for others to learn and help us keep the community safe.”

For his actions, Juranek received the Lifesaving Award, one of the highest honors given by the Red Cross to an individual or team of individuals, who saves or sustains a life by using skills and knowledge learned in a Red Cross Training Services course.

For his quick thinking and courageous act, Juranek was honored in a virtual ceremony that featured representatives from the Red Cross and the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center.

He was presented the Red Cross Lifesaving Award certificate, bearing the signatures of Gail McGovern, President and CEO of the American Red Cross, and Chairperson of the Board, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter.