Red Cross honors Carson teen

Tiffany Day, a Carson High School junior who suffered life-threatening injuries in a car crash on the first day of school this year, was named the Youth Good Samaritan by the Red Cross this week.

“Her strength, determination, perseverance and drive allowed this courageous young woman to beat the odds of an accident as severe as what she experienced,” wrote Carson High School health teacher Erin Been in her nomination letter. “She has endured a horrific accident, overcome and sets an example for all of those around her.”

The awards were announced during the 10th annual American Red Cross Real Heroes celebration Thursday at the Atlantis Casino and Resort in Reno.

“I was honored,” said Tiffany, 17. “When they told me I won, I started crying.”

After more than four months of hospitalization and rehabilitation, Tiffany returned to school at the end of January.

“She has jumped back into being manager for the middle school volleyball program, and for the high school track team,” Been wrote. “She continues to volunteer at a childcare center in Carson City. In the fall, she will continue to be the varsity volleyball team manager.

“Her spunky attitude, smiling face and intelligent mind is back.”

The Real Heroes program is designed to recognize people making a difference in their communities.

Been said Tiffany was deserving of the award for her bravery in her struggle.

“She has demonstrated extraordinary courage,” Been said. “She has literally fought for her life.”