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Girl helps blind father rescue mother

Monday, April 17, 2000 | 10:02 a.m.

A woman remained in critical condition at University Medical Center today after she was burned in a camping accident, then saved with the help of her 10-year-old daughter, who became the eyes for her blind father in a race to save the victim.

Tammyla Hanna was burned when she poured gasoline on a charcoal fire, causing a flash fire that set her clothing ablaze, according to American Medical Response paramedic Steve Ekmark.

Ekmark said David Hanna, who is legally blind, and his daughter got the woman in the car and drove down a remote access road near their campsite. Ekmark said the girl sat in her father's lap, giving directions as he steered the vehicle.

Another motorist eventually helped drive Tammyla Hanna out of the area.

"What they did was heroic," Ekmark said. "If they hadn't gotten her out of there for medical treatment, she would not have a chance at surviving."

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