Heimlich Maneuver

So the Heimlich Maneuver really does work.  

Unfortunately I know from experience. 

Tonight we had Ben's favorite meal.  Sketti and BALLS!  With heavy emphasis on the balls.  In, fact he has almost gotten to the point where he will leave the noodles and just eat the meat balls. 

Tonight, as I was getting supper ready, I sat 3 meatballs on a plate at Ben's place at the table to cool.   He HATES anyone touching or cutting his food, so I left them whole.  I had my back turned while I was getting the rest of the plates ready, and the little stinker sneaked in and dug in to his favorite meal.  I realized this when I heard him start to choke.  Sure enough there were only two meatballs on his plate.  

He actually got up and started kind of running in place, all the time trying to breath and making choking sounds.  My first instinct was to pat him on the back, but then I remembered that can actually make things worse.  So I quickly grabbed him under the rib cage and lifted up.  Out popped the meatball on the first try.  I was both shocked and relieved that it popped out so easily.  

The whole thing took less than 5 seconds, and I was amazed at how calmly I was able to get to Ben, get my arms around him, and lift him up.  I only got a little shaky when I sat down and realized what had just happened.  

Needless to say the rest of his meatballs got cut up.

And he did throw a fit about it.

  

Too bad little man.  You scared Mom enough for one night. 

Here is a refresher, for anyone who might want one.