Local woman tries to save parade clown

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) - The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an American tradition, which showcased a pop of Ohio pride this year as the Kenton Ridge Marching Cougars marched in the parade. They were one of just 11 bands selected for the honor.  Proud parents lined the Big Apple streets to see their kids perform.  Among them, Denise Howard. There with her husband and daughter she says they were thrilled by the magical sight.

However, not ten minutes after watching the Cougars go marching by, an emergency right before her eyes. "This gentleman was walking towards us, and then just all of a sudden just fell to his knees," said Denise by phone on her way back home to Ohio.

A parade clown collapsed in cardiac arrest.  Images by Andrew Kelly, seen on the New York Daily News online, captured the scene. As well as Denise rushing to his side. She can be seen in her bright pink tennis shoes and brown hooded sweatshirt.

"I immediately just started doing CPR," she said.

Denise is a certified EMT. She works in the ER at Springfield Regional Medical Center. She said the cheers went silent and she reacted without hesitation. "I didn't even realize how I got over that railing, because it comes over your chest!"

Instinct took over, and faith kicked in she said. The man's wife, also performing as a clown in the parade, was right there.

"He just didn't look like he was going to make it, but I was praying so desperately that he was," said Denise. "His wife was right there by his side saying, 'don't leave me, don't leave me'."

Despite their best efforts, reports say Robert Blasetti, 67, did not survive.

Denise learned of his passing late Friday night. She was shell shocked. She said her thoughts are now with his wife who suffered a heartbreaking loss during the holiday. However, she said the tragedy reminded her of what really matters in life.

"Being that it was Thanksgiving, and just being thankful for what you have; hold my friends and family near, and I know I have been chosen by the Lord to do what I do," she said.

Denise is in school to become a registered nurse