CPR and Quick Thinking Bring Baseball Player Back to Life: The Inspiring Recovery of Sean Ferguson
What happened next saved his life.
His teammates immediately began CPR, working quickly while someone retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED). Their decisive actions kept oxygen flowing to Ferguson’s brain and delivered the shock that restored his heartbeat. He survived after spending several days in a coma.
When 23-year-old Sydney Sooners catcher Sean Ferguson talks about baseball today, his perspective is different. After surviving a sudden cardiac arrest last spring, he now steps onto the field with renewed gratitude—and a powerful story that highlights why CPR and AED training truly matter.
“I’m so happy to be here as opposed to where I was,” Ferguson reflected. “You definitely get a second appreciation for life itself.”
A Sudden Collapse at Sullivan Field House
On June 9, Ferguson was playing basketball with friends—including several Sooners teammates—at Sullivan Field House when he suddenly collapsed.
Among those present were Kenny Long,Jordon Shepherd, Taylor Slade, Reilly O’Rourke, and the team’s assistant operations manager, Noah LaRose.This story was originally reported by SaltWire.
👉 You can read the full original article here: Ferguson back behind the plate for Sydney Sooners after heart attack
A Lifesaving Device and a Long Road Back
Just weeks after the incident, on June 24, Ferguson travelled to Halifax for surgery to receive a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD). This device monitors his heart rhythm and can deliver a lifesaving shock if needed.
Following an eight-week recovery period—and extensive discussions with his medical team—Ferguson made a remarkable decision: he wanted to return to baseball.
He wasn’t interested in sympathy.
“I didn’t want to come back as a charity case,” he said. “I wanted to come back and be able to produce or help.”
On August 20, he officially stepped back onto the field in a home game against the Kentville Wildcats—one of the most inspiring returns of the season.
Back Behind the Plate—and Back in the Playoff Race
With several games now behind him, Ferguson and the Sooners entered the postseason facing the defending league champions, the Dartmouth Moosehead Dry, in a best-of-five semifinal series.
Despite unexpected challenges, including losing their expected pennant after a required makeup game, the Sooners remained confident and determined.
“We’re not intimidated by anybody,” Ferguson said. “We’re going to play our game and hope for a good result.”
His presence behind the plate symbolizes far more than athletic strength—it’s a testament to how quick action, proper training, and teamwork can save a life.
Why Ferguson’s Story Matters for Everyone
Cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere—even in young, healthy athletes. Survival depends entirely on how quickly someone steps in to provide CPR and use an AED.
Immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.
An AED can restore a normal heart rhythm within seconds.
Ferguson is alive today because the people around him were prepared.
LEARN HOW TO SAVE A LIFE
Ferguson’s story is a powerful reminder that CPR and AED training are essential community skills.
If you want to gain the confidence to step in during an emergency, consider taking a certified course.
👉 Start here: CPR & AED Training in Calgary
This course covers hands-on CPR, AED use, and critical steps for responding to cardiac emergencies—skills that truly save lives.
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