Magnolia’s Miracle

Two-year-old Magnolia’s life took a harrowing turn on what started as a carefree summer day in Freelandville, Indiana. The family was attending a cookout with friends when tragedy struck. In a split second, Magnolia climbed a pool ladder and fell into the water. Her mother, Ashley, recalls the panic and chaos that followed.

“We couldn’t find her for a split second and then her dad pulled her out of the pool. He immediately started CPR while I called 911,” Magnolia’s mother, Ashley Stewart shared, her voice trembling with the memory.

The first to notice something was wrong was John Streeter, a neighbor and member of the Freelandville Fire Department. “John saw me outside and yelled over that there was a pediatric code across the street,” recalled paramedic William Vance, who lives nearby. Acting quickly, Will rushed to the scene and began assisting Magnolia’s father, who had started CPR. “How he heard us, I’ll never know—it was truly a miracle,” Ashley said.

Once Good Samaritan EMT Andrew Haberkorn and Paramedic Myron Mackey arrived, they worked alongside William to stabilize Magnolia’s condition. Together, the team provided critical care on the scene and continued their lifesaving efforts during her transport to the hospital. From Good Samaritan, she was airlifted to Riley Hospital for Children, where she began her incredible recovery journey.

Reflecting on the extraordinary events of that day, Vance shared a sentiment that resonated deeply with all involved: “During an EMS symposium, a speaker shared the quote: 'Science only goes so far, then comes God.' This sentiment perfectly encapsulates Maggie's story. While science and modern medicine were pivotal in her journey, it was divine intervention that brought everything together,” stated Vance. “The extraordinary outcome of her story serves as a powerful testament to what training, teamwork, and dedication can achieve. In the field of public safety, we often face challenging and heartbreaking situations that can test our resolve. However, stories like Maggie's remind us why we chose this profession—why we do what we do.”

Andrew Haberkorn, one of the first responders, added, “I am incredibly grateful and fortunate to be allowed to work with such professional and brilliant people. It's an honor to proudly serve the people of Knox County alongside the amazing leadership, paramedics, and EMTs of Good Samaritan's ambulance service, who set the daily example as role models in patient care to me as a first-year employee.”

Over the next six weeks, Magnolia relearned basic functions like holding her head up, crawling, walking, and talking. “Every day she was doing more and more she went from being unable to hold her head up, to sitting up, crawling, pulling herself up and back to walking,” Ashley marveled.

Now, months later, Magnolia is thriving. Her remarkable recovery is a testament to their quick actions and the extraordinary people who intervened. “I truly believe we had the best team possible—from her dad, Will, and the EMS team to the doctors and nurses at Good Sam and Riley,” Ashley said. The experience has left an indelible mark on Ashley and her family. “I thought I was going to lose her that day. I was preparing myself for the worst,” she admitted. “But here we are, and it’s all because of the people who cared enough to act.”

Ashley remains in contact with several members of the EMS team, especially Will, who stayed by their side throughout the ordeal. “I don’t have the words to thank them,” she said. “They not only saved Magnolia’s life but also showed our family so much compassion. They will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

Magnolia’s story is a reminder of the incredible strength of community and the power of faith, skill, and determination. For Ashley, the message to others is clear: “Have faith in the people helping you. They carry the weight of those moments with them, too. They’re doing their best and sometimes, that makes all the difference.”