An Abbotsford man was alive after a deadly arrythmia. When a sudden heart attack occurs, the ideal scenario is in a building with a paramedic and other healthcare professionals as well as a defibrillator.

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This was the case for an Abbotsford man who was alive after suffering a deadly arrhythmia at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre.

The middle-aged man with an average build was on a treadmill at the gym. He finished his workout and joined his wife who was running on the track when he collapsed.

Edmonton first aid — When a sudden heart attack occurs, the ideal scenario is in a building with a paramedic and other healthcare professionals as well as a defibrillator.

Immediate help

According to the facility manager Jennifer Thornton, it was a lucky day to have medical professional in the building at that time.

An off-duty paramedic Jim Earle was working out when he heard the commotion. An auxiliary firefighter Brian Wiens was also present in the gym and they assessed the man and started CPR. There were also 2 emergency room nurses attending a birthday party downstairs who arrived on the scene as well as a Corrections officer with CPR training.

A Lifepak defibrillator was also on hand at ARC which helped saved the life of the man. According to Thornton, a single shock brought the man back. Upon the arrival of the emergency team, the man was already conscious and talking.

According to Pete Smith, the on-duty paramedic, the man could end up in bad state if the Lifepak was not there. He had a deadly arrhythmia that could only be corrected by a defibrillator.

He was transported to Abbotsford Regional Hospital and stayed for observation.

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