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'Lifesaver.' Stamford library assistant honored by police for saving coworker's life

Orozco performed CPR, did chest compressions, and used the emergency defibrillator before firefighters arrived.

Justin DeVellis

Sep 1, 2026, 9:50 PM

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Seve Orozco knows firsthand that knowledge is power.

"I've worked at other places, and I did training for CPR," Orozco says. "It's always stayed with me."

The assistant at the Ferguson Library's Harry Bennett branch used his CPR training to help save the life of his coworker when she went into sudden cardiac arrest back in August.

"I just dropped the phone and ran down the staircase," Orozco says. "I saw her literally changing color in her face, and that means she wasn't getting any oxygen."

Orozco performed CPR, did chest compressions, and used the emergency defibrillator before firefighters arrived.

Officials say his quick actions are the reason the woman is still alive.

On Tuesday, Orozco was honored by Stamford police, and the coworker he saved was in attendance for the emotional ceremony.

"I'm feeling very good, and I'm very glad that they decided to honor him," Hannah VanTilburg says. "He's absolutely a sweetheart, the kindest man you'd ever meet, and a lifesaver at that."

Orozco says he doesn't want to be called a hero.

He's just happy he was able to help.

"Everybody should know CPR certification," Orozco says. "If you have a chance, learn it because you never know when you could save someone's life."

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