On the morning of July 13, 2011, Franconia Elementary fifth-grader Cynthia Almendarez was at home with her mother and 12-year-old sister when she noticed something odd.

Her 18-month-old nephew, Christopher, who was usually cruising around the house and making typical toddler sounds, was quiet and gasping for breath.

"I was scared because his face started to turn purple," Almendarez said. But she remembered something she learned at school.

Don’t panic. Call 9-1-1.

Almendarez quickly picked up the phone and reached operator Cheryl Dean, who was just starting her shift.

What the 10-year-old did next saved Christopher’s life.

On Monday, April 9, Almendarez and her family were honored at Fairfax County's Department of Public Safety Communication's (DPSC) 7th annual awards ceremony at the Fairfax County Government Center.

She was recognized for demonstrating exceptional bravery and heroism to save a life in a critical time using 9-1-1.

"I was surprised by her composure," Dean said, giving the little girl a hug after the ceremony. "I had to trust that she could convey the information I gave her. She remained calm until EMT’s arrived on the scene. She’s pretty amazing."

Christopher, whose breathing problems were caused by an infection, turned two-year-old last November. When Dean picked him up, he squirmed to get down and run around the lobby.

"He’s a typical, healthy two-year-old, thanks to Cynthia’s composure. She saved valuable time and Christopher’s life," said Roy Oliver, Assistant Director of DPSC. "I can't even comprehend putting myself on that side of the phone," Oliver said.

Oliver said Dean, who has been with the county for two years, was pretty amazing too.

"She was doing what she always does. She didn’t think anything of it until a supervisor listened to the tape, and realized that there was a special story here," Oliver said.

Since July, Almendarez has received numerous awards from local and national 9-1-1 agencies, as well as a commendation from the Board of Supervisors. In December, she received the "9-1-1 for Kids" award at Franconia Elementary. Inspired by her story, DPSC employees gave her family Christmas presents.

"I don’t think I’m a hero," she said, even though many friends and family would disagree. "I’m just really happy that he’s okay. I love spending time with him."