Heroic Teen Saves Mother from Seizure-Induced Accident on I-75

Feb 18, 2025 at 6:58 PM

A remarkable incident unfolded on Sunday when a teenage boy's swift actions prevented a potential tragedy on Interstate 75. Candice Thomas, a mother from Ocala, experienced a sudden seizure while driving her family from Ocala to Gainesville. As she began to lose control of the vehicle, her 16-year-old son, Chaz, took immediate action to ensure everyone's safety. The car started veering off course, and Chaz quickly realized something was wrong with his mother. Without hesitation, he managed to remove her foot from the accelerator and gently steered the car into a ditch, preventing a more serious accident.

After securing the vehicle, Chaz promptly called emergency services and flagged down passing drivers for assistance. His calm demeanor and quick thinking were crucial in managing the situation effectively. Once help arrived, Chaz ensured his mother was in a comfortable position, allowing her to regain her breath and recover from the episode. Candice expressed immense gratitude for her son's presence of mind and credited his earlier CPR training for equipping him with the necessary skills to handle the crisis. “I never imagined my child would be so prepared,” she remarked, adding that she felt incredibly proud of his decisive actions.

Mother and son now reflect on the event with relief and appreciation. Candice is currently under the care of a neurologist to address the cause of her seizure. Both are thankful for the outcome and emphasize the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations. This heartwarming story highlights the value of life-saving skills and the bond between parent and child, reminding us all of the power of readiness and compassion in times of crisis.