Two Union County Public Health nurses have been recognized with the Lifesaver Award for their extraordinary actions during a medical emergency at an emergency shelter earlier this year.

On Jan. 25, 2026, while staffing the County’s emergency shelter during Winter Storm Fern, nurses Maegan Trull and Jennifer Gribben demonstrated exceptional clinical skill, professionalism and composure when a shelter client experienced a life-threatening medical crisis. While conducting a routine intake assessment, the nurses quickly identified that the client’s condition was rapidly declining. The individual became unresponsive and had shallow, irregular breathing. Without hesitation, Trull and Gribben transitioned from assessment to lifesaving care. They safely assisted the individual to the floor, ensured the airway was open, and immediately began appropriate resuscitative measures. Their rapid recognition of the situation, paired with decisive action and seamless teamwork, ensured that critical care was delivered without delay.

The nurses remained calm and focused, continuing to provide compassionate care until Union EMS arrived at the emergency shelter. Thanks to their swift intervention and clinical expertise, the patient was stabilized and transported to the hospital awake and breathing.

“The actions of these two nurses exemplify the best of public service,” said County Manager Brian Matthews. “Their ability to remain calm under pressure, act quickly, and deliver high-quality care in a critical moment made a lifesaving difference. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and commitment to our community.”

County leaders surprised Trull and Gribben with the Lifesaver Award on April 10. The Lifesaver Award is presented to County employees whose actions directly contribute to saving a life.