Dillan Houle was born and raised on the Ebb & Flow First Nation.
When he graduated from high school in the community, he wasn't ready to go anywhere, but he needed to find a job. So he applied to the Elementary School and got a job as an educational assistant.
He's now in his second year in the position and is thriving. Taking life day by day, Houle said it's great to be able to help support the younger generation while they navigate the school system.
"I've opened myself up to working at the school," said Houle. "I've learned new skills. You learn something new every day working here. It's been fantastic, I've really enjoyed it."
During a Halloween get-together at the school this year, everything took a turn. A fourth-grade student went to get some nachos and cheese. One of the chips got wedged in the student's mouth, and that student began to choke.
When Dillan was 12, he took his first aid and CPR course with the Cadet program. Little did he know that his training would be the reason the student is still alive today. Without hesitation, Houle performed the Heimlich maneuver on the student, who stopped choking.
On that day, Dillan became a lifesaver.
"I think the emotions really set in lately after getting a gift from the school," continued Houle. "We went on a retreat to Winnipeg recently, and everyone gave me a round of applause. That was awesome, such a great feeling."
The gift was a pair of Gauntlet Gloves, handmade by Linda Fariss.
Houle wears the gloves with great pride and is very appreciative to have received them.
"It's really, really awesome," added Houle. "I am very humbled to have received a gift like that."
Dillan says he chose to stay in his home community because of the people.
"I know everybody, and everyone knows everyone in the community," ended Houle. "The community is an awesome place. I am proud to say I am from Ebb & Flow First Nation."
Dillan Houle is an educational assistant and a lifesaver.
