Doctor Rafael Ruggeri experienced a life-threatening moment during the Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon this year. While running through Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, he suddenly collapsed from a heart attack. Fortunately, his son Isaac was running with him, and Isaac had just learned CPR a few weeks before the race.
Isaac had a feeling about a month before the marathon that he should learn CPR. Rafael said, “I had this impression that he ought to go ahead and do it because he would need that training someday. I just didn’t know he was going to need it for me.”
When Rafael collapsed, Isaac quickly checked his pulse and noticed his father’s skin was discolored. Isaac said, “We got him on his back, checked his pulse and everything. I had someone call 911 when he looked discolored and everything. Then after he had no pulse and breathing, we started CPR.”
During the emergency, Rafael’s heart stopped seven times. Each time, a defibrillator shocked him back to life. Rafael credits his survival to his son’s swift actions and the help of several bystanders who performed CPR.
Rafael is now healthy and recovering well, three months after the incident. He emphasizes the importance of learning CPR, saying, “You never know when you might need that training.”
Also Read:
- Gaslamp Quarter Assault Leaves Security Guard Partially Paralyzed, Suspect Sought
- Severe Weather Alert: Illinois and Iowa Brace for Tornado Threat
This remarkable story highlights the crucial role of CPR training and how it can save lives in unexpected situations. Isaac’s quick thinking and recent training made all the difference during a critical moment. Rafael’s experience is a powerful reminder of the value of being prepared for emergencies.
