12-year-old saves drowning man, credits CPR learned from ‘Stranger Things’

In a heartwarming tale of heroism, a 12-year-old boy from Palm Beach County, Austen MacMillan, has earned praise for his quick thinking and courage after saving the life of his behavioral therapist, Jason Piquette. The remarkable part? Austen’s life-saving skills were honed from watching the popular Netflix series, “Stranger Things.”

Austen, a resident of Wellington, had been under the guidance of Jason Piquette for several years. Their activities together typically revolved around building confidence and strength through swimming sessions. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary day would turn into a life-changing event.

About a week ago, Austen and Piquette were engaged in a friendly competition while in the pool, seeing who could hold their breath the longest. Unbeknownst to them, fate had other plans. Surveillance cameras at the residence captured the chilling moment when Piquette, in the midst of holding his breath, began drifting towards the pool’s deep end.

As the clock ticked away, a minute and 40 seconds passed, and it became evident that something was terribly wrong. Piquette remained unresponsive. In a commendable display of composure beyond his years, Austen immediately recognized the gravity of the situation and sprang into action.

With unwavering determination, Austen swiftly pulled Piquette towards the shallower side of the pool, undoubtedly saving his life. The young hero’s quick thinking and the CPR techniques he had gleaned from “Stranger Things” proved to be instrumental in this life-or-death situation.

“I just saw it from a TV show—Stranger Things,” Austen told ABC News. “After I gave him CPR, he woke up a few minutes later.”

“It was definitely a really proud mom moment. He’s really brave and courageous,” said Christina MacMillan, Austen’s mom.

Austen MacMillan’s heroic actions have rightfully earned him the title of a local hero, showcasing how inspiration can come from unexpected sources.