Deputy Alibozek honored for life-saving action

Just like lightning victim Scott Jough had done the year before, Anne Marie Larson of Lanesboro wanted to be there personally to offer thanks when her life-saving Sheriff’s Deputy received some public recognition.

“I will always be indebted to him,” Mrs. Larson said of Deputy Lucas Alibozek, who was among emergency responders from throughout Berkshire County who were honored for their life-saving efforts during the Emergency Medical Services of Berkshire County’s 20th annual EMS Awards Recognition Dinner at the Pittsfield Elks Lodge May 14, 2010.

It was Sept. 12, 2009, three days before Mrs. Larson’s 72nd birthday, when Alibozek leapt into action, performing life-saving CPR when Mrs. Larson suffered cardiac arrest and collapsed on the floor of a local fitness facility.

“It was just my second time there, and then I’m pedaling my bike, and then I don’t know where I was,” Mrs. Larson recalled of that day. Alibozek’s efforts restored her breathing and pulse until Pittsfield Fire Department Paramedics and County Ambulance personnel took over with advanced life support. She regained consciousness in the ambulance, then  spent 12 days in the hospital between Berkshire Medical Center and Bay State Medical Center, where she had a defibrillator implanted.

“Now instead of going out with the girls, I go to BMC’s cardiac rehab — a great program,” Mrs. Larson said.

On a night of many ovations, when EMS responders from six agencies were honored for 17 saves, it was Mrs. Larson’s testimony that drew the loudest and most prolonged ovation.

“The cardiologist says everything looks good for me,” said Mrs. Larson, who has also been in remission for three years following two bouts with lymphoma. “Keep up the good work, Lucas. Between you and your department, we certainly are grateful for your wonderful work.”

Mrs. Larson’s husband, Warren, who also has an implanted defibrillator, carried a large family portrait to the dinner to drive home a point.

“Anne Marie wasn’t the only one affected by that good deed,” he said. “We have four children and their spouses and 12 grandchildren. They all know Lucas’s name now, and they all love him to death. We’re all sure glad Lucas was around that day.”