Bystanders Use Defibrillator to Save Teen in Cardiac Arrest at Ottawa High School
A 15-year-old boy is alive today thanks to the fast and coordinated actions of bystanders who stepped in when he collapsed from cardiac arrest during a futsal tournament at Sir Robert Borden High School on Greenbank Road.
This incident was first reported by CBC News, and you can read the original article here:
➡️ Bystanders use defibrillator to help save boy in cardiac arrest
Ottawa paramedics later emphasized that “without the actions of the bystanders, the outcome might have been quite different.”
A Sudden Collapse During a School Tournament
The teen was competing in a weekend futsal tournament—an indoor version of soccer played with a smaller ball—when he suddenly collapsed on the court. Witnesses recognized the emergency immediately and began taking action.
A cardiologist who happened to be present started CPR right away while others retrieved the school’s automated external defibrillator (AED). Their quick teamwork helped maintain vital circulation until help arrived.
Life-Saving Actions Before Paramedics Arrived
After the AED was brought to the scene, bystanders delivered a single shock before paramedics arrived. Paramedics continued CPR and administered additional shocks until the boy’s pulse returned.
He regained consciousness en route to the hospital and was transported to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, where he remained in serious but stable condition.
Paramedics also revealed that this incident marks the fifth person revived in Ottawa this year with the help of a public-access AED—highlighting just how essential early defibrillation is.
Why CPR and AED Training Truly Matter
Cardiac arrest can strike without warning, and survival depends on immediate action. Every minute without CPR dramatically reduces the chance of survival.
This case clearly shows how trained bystanders—and accessible AEDs—save lives.
Learn More About CPR, AEDs, and Emergency Response
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