On Thursday May 8, 2008, Orange County Sheriff’s Department Professional Service Responder John Reichardt observed a woman at the arrival level in front of Terminal A who appeared to be in need of medical assistance. Deputies and SSOs quickly arrived to investigate. John is one of the department’s PSR volunteers who regularly donate their time (collectively, more 75 hours per week) at John Wayne Airport.
The woman was found to be lethargic, had slow and slurred speech, and was unable to stand without assistance. She advised the responding deputies and SSOs that she takes a prescription medication for anxiety. The officers were able to locate a prescription bottle dated the same day, with instructions to take one pill as needed at bedtime. The prescription was for 30 pills however, only 19 pills were left in the bottle.
Paramedics were summoned and the woman was transported to the Irvine Medical Center for further treatment and observation.
The next day, she phoned the Control Center and wanted to express her gratitude for the actions of the officers involved. She apparently had no memory of the incident and believed the individuals who assisted her had truly saved her life.