Georgia Chick-fil-A worker honored for rescuing choking girl

A Coweta County Chick-fil-A team member is being hailed a hero after helping a child who was choking in her restaurant’s parking lot.
Published: Nov. 1, 2023 at 10:28 AM EDT
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ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Mia Valez had only been on the job at a Newnan Chick-fil-A for a few months when she found herself performing the Heimlich maneuver on a choking child.

Mia was working the drive-thru that day when she saw a young girl choking on a coin. She sprung into action without hesitation.

“I’m a nurse and I saw the thing come across our FB that a girl saved a girl in the parking lot, and I thought that was pretty cool,” said one customer.

The Atlanta News Surprise Squad decided that such a noble act deserved more than a simple pat on the back, and decided to go undercover to surprise Mia.

With a little help from the manager, Mia was moved from the drive-thru to the counter, at which point the ANF Surprise Squad handed her a box.

In the box were two gift cards, one for T.J. Maxx and one for Target, but that wasn’t all. Beaver Toyota stepped in with something more, a check for $500!

“Oh, my goodness, thank you so much,” exclaimed the surprised Mia, " I just never expected any of this to go this far; I’m absolutely grateful.”

From the ANF Surprise Squad to Mia, for going above and beyond, it’s our pleasure!

Thanks to our sponsors Beaver Toyota of Cumming, United Community Bank, and Van Sant Law for making this surprise possible.

If you know someone helping others and making a difference in the community, let us know at surprisesquad@atlantanewsfirst.com.