Acadia Hockey Player Takes Nothing for Granted After Overtime Heart Attack
Brendan Childerley has no memory of the moments leading up to the heart attack that abruptly ended his university hockey career. The skilled Acadia Axemen forward remembers life normally just days before the game — and then waking up in a hospital bed.
“My memory from a couple days before the game to when I woke up in the hospital is completely gone,” Childerley recalled in an interview following the incident.
A Sudden Medical Emergency During Overtime
The medical emergency occurred on February 23 during Acadia University’s semifinal game against St. Francis Xavier University. After the first overtime period, Childerley began to feel unwell during intermission. What followed was a frightening and life-threatening situation that no one could have anticipated.
Trainers, the team doctor, local paramedics, and cardiologist Dr. Adam Clarke acted immediately. Childerley was rushed to a medical room inside the arena, where he suffered cardiac arrest.Thanks to quick thinking and proper emergency response, CPR was started and a defibrillator was used to restore his heartbeat. He was then transported to a Halifax hospital, where doctors performed surgery to clear a blocked artery.
“I don’t think I’ll ever forget how fortunate I was to have the right people there,” Childerley said. “And how fortunate I am to be here today.”
👉 This story was originally reported by SaltWire and can be read in full here: Acadia hockey player taking nothing for granted after OT heart attack
Gratitude for the People Who Saved His Life
Following his recovery, Childerley had the opportunity to personally thank the medical staff and first responders who saved his life — a moment he described as incredibly meaningful.
Their actions highlight why learning CPR and how to use an AED is so important. In emergencies like sudden cardiac arrest, immediate action can be the difference between life and death. This is why enrolling in a recognized CPR and AED training course is essential for athletes, coaches, workplaces, and everyday people alike.
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