Colorado Springs Airport (COS) TSA Officer Nancy Tavale heroically stepped in to help a mother and her two-month-old baby during a medical emergency.
The two passengers were going through the COS security checkpoint when the mother began showing signs of a serious medical emergency. Traveling alone and with her condition quickly worsening, she was unable to care for her baby.
Tavale, the checkpoint supervisor, assessed the situation and called TSA Security Operations to dispatch EMTs. She then took the baby and provided comfort and reassurance until medical help arrived.
TSA Manager Jeffery Duckett was on the scene and was thankful Tavale was there when everything occurred.
"It was a blessing that Nancy was the checkpoint supervisor on this day,” said Duckett. “Other supervisors would have called for medical response for the mother as required by our protocols, but Nancy knew the baby needed someone skilled to care for such a small baby while the mother was being treated by EMTs."
Tavale continued to hold and comfort the baby while the medics assessed the passenger’s condition and ultimately determined they needed to transport her to the local hospital.
With the traveler still unable to care for her baby, Tavale took care of the child until friends came to the airport and picked her up. Meanwhile, she cradled and looked after the baby in the TSA manager’s office and even sent another officer to buy diapers from the airport gift shop.
This is not the first time Tavale was recognized for her caring nature.
“At work, when mothers with small children come through on her shift, she instinctively ensures they complete required screening with as little stress as possible,” said Duckett. “Passengers are always telling me how wonderful she is.”
Tavale’s actions demonstrate the dedication TSA officers exhibit at the checkpoint. Her immediate action, calm leadership and genuine care for both mother and baby turned what could have been a devastating situation into an inspiring story of humanity.
"While all our officers pride themselves on providing world-class security as well as customer experience, TSA Officer Tavale's courage and commitment to caring for those in need sets her apart,” said Duckett.
By Hailie Hummer, TSA Strategic Communications & Public Affairs