Trained First Aid Response Saves Golfer’s Life in P.E.I.
What began as a routine summer day on the golf course nearly turned tragic—but fast action and CPR training helped save a life.
On July 11, Wilbur Birt was golfing at Fox Meadow Golf Course in Stratford, Prince Edward Island, just across the river from his home in Charlottetown. According to a CBC News report, the day started like any other.
“I don’t remember leaving home that morning,” Birt told CBC. “I don’t remember the drive over the bridge… I don’t remember entering the golf course.”
His wife noticed nothing unusual and said he was joking with her before heading out.
Collapse on the Third Fairway
While playing the third fairway, one of Birt’s golfing partners noticed something was wrong. Birt suddenly collapsed and was taken to the clubhouse in a golf cart as staff called for an ambulance.
As his condition worsened and he struggled to remain conscious, Cassandra Paynter—a pro shop employee and trained lifeguard—stepped in. It was only her first week on the job.
Paynter immediately began providing first aid, encouraging Birt to keep breathing and treating him for shock while waiting for emergency responders.
CPR That Kept His Heart Beating
When paramedics arrived, Birt lost consciousness. Paynter worked alongside them, performing chest compressions to help keep his heart pumping. She also guided other staff members on proper CPR technique, maintaining the correct rhythm and coordinating closely with paramedics.
“I was just very focused on keeping the proper rhythm to keep the heart pumping,” Paynter said.
She later credited her first aid and CPR training for giving her the confidence to act quickly and correctly—skills taught in professional CPR and AED training programs, such as those offered through Calgary First Aid CPR courses.
“They gave me the confidence to act immediately and properly,” she said. “Luckily, Wilbur is still here today because of that training.”
A Long Road to Recovery
Birt was transported to hospital, placed in an induced coma, and kept on a respirator for five days. He was later transferred to Saint John, where doctors implanted a defibrillator and confirmed he had suffered a full cardiac arrest.
This was not his first heart-related emergency. In 2004, Birt underwent a quadruple bypass surgery.
During his recovery, he often thought about the woman who helped save his life.
“To put your arms around someone who kept you here on this Earth to enjoy my family and grandkids—I’m indebted to her,” Birt said. “I could never ever repay her.”
When they finally met again, the moment was emotional.
“It was surreal to see him walk through the doors,” Paynter said. “We gave each other a big hug.”
A Powerful Reminder About First Aid Training
Birt is expected to make a full recovery and says the experience has changed his outlook on life.
“Every morning now I get up, put my feet on the floor, look out the window, and say thank you for giving me another day,” he said.
This real-life story, originally reported by CBC News, highlights how immediate first aid and CPR can save lives.
👉 Read the full original article here: I could never ever repay her’: Man thanks woman who helped keep his heart beating
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