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Casey’s honors employee who saved choking man
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · September 15, 2016


In early August, Matthew Johnson was sweeping when a Casey’s General Store co-worker called for help.


She pointed to customer Daryl Swanson, a 6-foot, 3-inch, 285-pound man, who was choking.

Johnson, 25, a West Branch High School graduate, reached around the retired U.S. Navy veteran, to perform the Heimlich maneuver. After three or four abdominal thrusts, Johnson dislodged a small piece of tenderloin sandwich and opened Swanson’s breathing passage.

The grateful Swanson contacted Casey’s corporate office to commend Johnson’s quick, life-saving actions at the new store located at 615 South Downey near Interstate 80.

“He knew what to do,” Swanson wrote in an e-mail to Casey’s. “I actually don’t know what I would have done next without him, and I don’t want to find out!”

On Monday, Casey’s recognized Johnson for his heroics in a brief ceremony and presenting him with a certificate and a Coin of Excellence meant to recognize employees who go above and beyond, Area Supervisor Blaine Miller said.

Johnson replied modestly to the presentation at the front of the store as customers and co-workers gathered around.

“I walked over and did the best I could,” he said of the incident. “It’s not a big deal. I just did what I could. It’s as simple as that.”

Swanson wrote in his commendation that he asked Johnson where he learned the move; Johnson’s answer: West Branch High School.

“They taught it … umpteen times until we got it right,” he said, noting that he once had to use it on himself.

Miller called it a “wonderful thing.”

Johnson is finishing up courses at Kirkwood Community College before entering the University of Iowa, his mother, Leesa, said.

“I’m very thrilled,” Leesa said of her son’s actions. “The man was turning blue.”

Matthew Johnson said that Swanson tried to give him $20 as a way to express his gratitude, but he declined.

“It was more than enough to help him out,” he said. “I’m glad I remembered (the Heimlich maneuver). I never expected it to come in handy like that.”