Mildred Ayesh

is honored with a Brick from Richard R. Ayesh

FIVE PERSONS ESCAPE DEATH

Girl Awakens in Time to Avert Tragedy

A family of five narrowly escaped asphyxiation at 4:45 a.m. today from gas escaping from the floor furnace at their home at 1735 Fairmount, according to Charles E. Sparling, policepatrolman.
The quintet consisted of James H. Lewis, 52; his wife, Mildred, 49; and their three daughters, Mildred, 17; Oleta, 19; and Lou Ann, 13.
All are reported to be in fair condition at St. Joseph's hospital, and it is thought there will be no permanent ill effects.
Seventeen-year-old Mildred Maxine was judged by police to be the heroine of the near tragedy.
Lou Ann had awakened, cried that she felt "sick at her stomach." Aroused, her parents cared for her and put her back to bed.
Quiet ensued, following which Mr. and Mrs. Lewis heard a crash. Hurrying to Mildred's room, they say she had arisen, walked toward the door and fainted, knocking over the lamp.
They revived the 17-year-old, check Oleta, 19, and found she was unconscious. They could not revive her.
Becoming alarmed, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, still groggy from inhaling the deadly fumes, called their lone son, Frank Lewis, 1311 South Emporia.
When Frank arrived he took immediate stock of the situation and called for medical aid. Shortly arriving, Mrs. Cleon Lewis, 2320 East Murdock, sister-in-law of James Lewis, opened the windows.
The family was taken to St. Joseph's hospital in Gordon and Cochran ambulances. The girls have regained consciousness, Mr. Lewis is suffering chest pains, and Mrs. Lewis has temporary laryngitis as a result of the near gassing.