Quick-thinking school nurses save teacher's life in Collier County

NAPLES, Fla. - A Sabal Palm Elementary School teacher's life was saved after a medical emergency on campus.

Marissa Colon, the school's music teacher, suffered from a stroke on December 1st while having lunch. Her family credited the school's nurses for their quick response, which they believe saved her life.

Christi Guerrero, is one of the school nurses at Sabal Palm Elementary School.

"We monitor their conditions, that they have, that while their parents are working or doing something else, we're here to be their backup and their help," said Guerrero. "Most of the time it's our kids. However, we do have the ability to also take care of our staff members, and sometimes they need us just as much as our kids do."

Guerrero was one of many to respond when Colon had her stroke.

"Super glad that we were here to help," she said. "That we were able to do our part and our job and make sure that, you know, they know that there are nurses here on school campuses that are here to help at any, any need that the student may have or the staff may have."

Colon’s family shared that she cannot move her left arm or leg and is having trouble with her left eye, memory, and speaking. Despite these challenges, there is hope within the school community for Colon's return.

"Oh yes, yes, I would love to see her back doing everything that she did before, because she is a phenomenal teacher," said Guerrero. "Overly loved her students, overly loved the community out here in Collier County."

Colon’s husband told WINK News reporter Camila Pereira that it is an uphill battle, but she is showing signs of progress every day. However, it will take time, money, and strength for her to return to school and continue doing what she loves.