Father fights for life after he choked on a chunk of meat at NYE party and doctor performed emergency tracheotomy with a STEAK KNIFE
Brian 'Mayor' O'Niell remains on life support as docs praise hero pal's quick thinking
A DAD of two is clinging to life after a hero friend cut open his throat with a STEAK KNIFE to remove a piece of meat he was choking on.
Brian O'Niell started gasping for air when food became lodged in his throat at a New Year's Party.
The 51-year-old fell unconscious while four people tried to use the Heimlich manoeuvre.
A doctor friend who remains anonymous stepped in to perform an emergency tracheotomy with a steak knife at the restaurant in Nebraska, reports.
Mr O'Niell was then rushed to hospital where he remains on life support.
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Doctors hailed the quick thinking of his brave pal saying the expertly performed incision allowed them to dislodge the piece of meat without further harming him.
Mr O'Niell is a regular face in the town of Omaha where he has coached youth sports teams.
He has even been given the nickname 'The Mayor' in recognition of his popularity.
A rosary vigil attended by hundreds was held at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in his honour.
Friend Rick Pane said: "We are going to pray for Brian. We're going to pray for a miracle and we've got faith."
Brother Mike O'Neill, said: "You should never leave home without telling everyone you love them, because you never know when something like this is going to happen and if that will be the last time you talk to them.
"We need your prayers."
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