02/01/2026
We are so proud of TJ and blessed to have him as part of the Hillcrest Firethorn community!
TJ Mills stepped in without hesitation to help save a life at the Lincoln Half Marathon. His calm action, compassion and training reflect the heart of our team and the care we bring to guests every day.
Full Story and Letter from the Lincoln Track Club Below:
Shortly after crossing the finish line of the Lincoln Half Marathon at 9:42 AM on Sunday, May 4, 2025, TJ Mills found himself shifting instantly from runner to lifesaver. Still catching his breath, TJ noticed a young woman collapse just past the finish line, Without hesitation, he ran toward her. As a nurse at Hillcrest Firethorn in Lincoln, he quickly assessed the situation and began administering CPR—steady, skilled, and focused—continuing compressions for several minutes until additional medical staff and Lincoln Fire & Rescue arrived. His decisive actions helped save her
life.
The next day, I visited the runner and her family in her hospital room as she recovered from heart surgery. Their gratitude was overwhelming—not just for the Lincoln Track Club, but especially for TJ. When I learned that he had already visited them earlier that morning, I was deeply moved. The runner's mother said something I will never forget: "We wanted to meet the people who saved our daughter's life." It was a powerful reminder of how small moments of courage can change everything.
What makes TJ's heroism even more remarkable is the context. He had finished the half marathon in 2:25:23, and before his own heart rate had even begun to settle, he went straight into rescue mode. No pause. No hesitation. Only action. Only compassion. Only the instincts of someone who has dedicated himself to caring for others.
This is what heroes do. Not the ones who look for recognition or applause, but the ones who act because it is simply who they are.
Thank you, TJ, for your extraordinary courage and selfless service.
The Lincoln Track Club is proud to present you with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award.
