Heroes On The PA Turnpike

Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Maintenance Department employees John Gallagher and Doug Sarver had just completed a job on the roadway and were heading back to the Devault Maintenance Shed in Malvern, Pa., when they saw a car stopped on the westbound shoulder. The female driver appeared to be in distress, so Gallagher and Sarver called the PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center (TOC) for an ambulance. After they approached the passenger, they quickly realized she was having a serious medical episode. Gallagher stayed with her to make sure she was safe while Sarver waited outside the vehicle.

As the woman collapsed, a passing motorist and Temple Health nurse stopped to offer support. Cindy Zimmerman performed life-saving CPR until the ambulance arrived; Pennsylvania State Police later confirmed the woman survived.

Supporting motorists is part of the PA Turnpike’s commitment to safety. Drivers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike are never alone thanks to maintenance teams, a 24/7 operations center, and nearby emergency professionals. For help, motorists can dial *11 anywhere on the roadway.

Pictured are PA Turnpike Maintenance Department employees, John Gallagher, left, and Doug Sarver, right with nurse Cindy Zimmerman, center.