When Sudbury bus driver Christine Larochelle began her shift on December 11, she had no idea it would turn into a life-saving moment.
While driving her regular route back from Capreol, Larochelle noticed what she initially believed was a blanket or a bag lying along Municipal Road 80. After passing it, she quickly realized it was a person. She immediately stopped the bus and rushed to help.
Quick Thinking in a Medical Emergency
The person on the roadside was a young woman who had collapsed and was unconscious. Larochelle checked for signs of life and discovered the teenager had no pulse. Another driver also stopped to assist and called 9-1-1.
Although Larochelle had never been formally trained in CPR, the emergency dispatcher calmly guided her through chest compressions over the phone. She followed those instructions and continued CPR until paramedics arrived.
As a mother, the situation was emotionally overwhelming.
“You think about the family, the girl, and whether she’s going to be okay,” Larochelle later said.
A Life Saved
The young woman was identified as Hannah Godin, a 17-year-old who collapsed due to a pre-existing heart condition. Thanks to immediate action and dispatcher-assisted CPR, Hannah survived and has since fully recovered.
Larochelle says the best reward is knowing the outcome was positive.
“She’s going to have a productive life. Her parents still have her,” she said. “That’s what matters most.”
Christine Larochelle was later recognized by the City of Greater Sudbury for workplace excellence, honouring her calm response and willingness to act during a life-threatening emergency.
You can read the original CBC News story about this heroic rescue here:
👉 Sudbury Bus Driver Saves a Life With CPR
Why CPR Training Is So Important
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical life-saving skill that can dramatically improve survival during cardiac emergencies. This incident highlights how emergencies can happen anywhere and how immediate action—Guided or trained can save lives.
Learn More About First Aid and CPR
For additional information about CPR and emergency response, explore these trusted resources:
About The Author
Mark Kascha
Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.
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Last reviewed: March 2026
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