Clintonville boy awarded for saving his father’s life

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June 27, 2008

By KATELYN MOCKRY The Press Republican Fri Jun 27, 2008, 05:36 PM EDT

KEESEVILLE — Lifting up an all-terrain vehicle, running almost a mile and driving a large diesel truck sound like the actions of a grown man or woman.

However, it was these feats that 11-year-old Ryan Mills accomplished last year to save his father’s life.

Life in danger

On April 9, 2007, Ryan, who was 10 at the time, was riding with his father, Albert Mills, on a Yamaha Rhino ATV through the woods near their home in Clintonville.

The vehicle flipped on a turn and landed on top of Albert, pinning one of his legs underneath.

Unable to move and feeling immense pain, Albert told his son to get the log roller from the back of the ATV and lodge it under the vehicle.

Following his father’s instructions, Ryan attempted to use the roller as leverage to lift the ATV, which weighed about 2,000 pounds, off his father’s leg.

After four attempts, the 10-year-old managed to lift the vehicle enough so his father could push himself away with his injured leg.

GET THE TRUCK

Ryan then ran back to their house — about three-quarters of a mile — to drive back a truck to pick up his father.

He had a little experience driving on their property.

“I tried the first truck, but I couldn’t shift the gear, so I had to get in the bigger one, the F350 diesel truck, and drive that back,” Ryan said.

After helping his father into the truck, they drove back to the house and called 911.

“With every bump and shake back, I could feel awful pain in my leg,” Albert said. “When we got out, there was a huge pile of blood on the floormat.”

After about 10 minutes, an ambulance arrived and rushed Albert to the hospital.

“It sure felt like a lot longer than that,” Ryan said.

Recovery

Fourteen months later, Albert is still recovering from the accident, walking on crutches and undergoing operations.

Among the injuries and ailments he sustained are a broken tibia, fractures, broken bones and infection.

“It’s been a long, long process, but I’m obviously glad to be alive,” he said.

“I probably would’ve bled to death if it hadn’t been for (Ryan).”

His son said he just did what he had to do.

“I’m just happy I helped him down safely. I feel pretty good that I helped.”

A young hero

Earlier this week, Ryan was honored by the Keeseville Volunteer Fire Department for saving his father’s life.

“If others that were in emergency situations like that acted as calm as (Ryan) was, that would make things a heck of a lot easier,” EMS Medical Director Russ Hartung said as he presented the award.

“Courage is doing what needs to be done in a terrible situation, even if you’re scared to death,” said EMS Lt. Kenneth Ackley.

“And Ryan showed just that.”