Michael Finch, 6 of Tiverton with his father, Christopher Finch and mother, Rebecca Cottle whom he is credited with saving in a remarkable call to 911. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
By Steve Klamkin WPRO News
A six-year old Tiverton boy is honored by the Rhode Island State Police for helping to save his mother when she was stricken at their home last month.
Michael William Finch was singled out by state police with a “Lifesaving Award” during the department’s 25th annual Memorial Ceremony, which typically honors retired and deceased members of the force. He was made an Honorary Trooper of the Rhode Island State Police.
Michael followed instructions from his mother, Rebecca Cottle, and called 911, when she had what she believes was a low blood sugar reaction.
“I felt a whoosh come over me, and I knew I was about to pass out, and right before I did, I handed my son the phone and I said, “Call 911″. And I don’t remember the rest of it,” said Cottle.
“I taught him at a very young age, ‘this is your name, this is your address, this is my phone number. You call 911 in an emergency, that’s what they’re going to ask you” and he memorized it.” Cottle said he came through. “He did, I’m so proud.”
Michael, who attends the Aquidneck Elementary School in Middletown, Rhode Island had the presence of mind to tell the 911 dispatcher that he had a dog at the residence that barked at everyone, put the dog in a secure room and let firefighters into the house, and retrieved his mother’s medication for the firefighters, said State Police Lieutenant Colonel Todd Catlow.
“When Tiverton fire thanked Michael for helping both his mom and the firefighters, Michael simply replied, “I did what my Mom taught me to do”,” said Lt. Col. Catlow. He was presented with a State Police hat and shirt by the Rhode Island Troopers Association.
Gov. Gina Raimondo also presented Michael with a citation, which read in part, “In a time of great need, you remained calm and focused.”
After the ceremony, Michael replied “yes” when asked if he was excited, if the ceremony was a big deal, and whether he plans to grow up and become a trooper. He was given a State Police hat and jacket, but was most proud after the ceremony to show off a set of miniature handcuffs.
His mother said that the Town of Tiverton also plans a ceremony to recognize Michael’s actions.
