Survivor Stories
American Heart Association
I have worked with the American Heart Association of Southeast Michigan on many “Survivor Stories” to tell people’s incredible stories of survival after experiencing a cardiac arrest or stroke. The following stories about Kyle, Maddie and Keith are a few examples of powerful stories we’ve told about people’s lives before, during and after their heart experiences.
The videos are often shown at the AHA’s local events like the Detroit Heart Walk, Go Red For Women or the Detroit Heart Ball to raise awareness, show the faces of impact, and communicate how the funds raised go toward continued heart research, CPR training and prevention efforts.
Kyle’s Survivor Story
Kyle was an avid runner, planning for her wedding, and just living life before she experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. Her husband Ian luckily knew CPR and was able to help save her life along with the paramedics. Kyle and Ian had always planned to start a family, and although it didn’t go exactly as planned, they now have two sons and a whole new life to be thankful for.
MADDIE’s Survivor Story
Mallory and Kenny had always wanted a baby girl and were so excited for Maddie to be born. During an ultrasound they found out that Maddie’s heart wasn’t formed properly and that she would need multiple surgeries when she was born. But she’s now a happy, healthy, thriving toddler, running around and would never know all that she went through.
Keith’s Survivor Story
Keith and his wife Brittany were just living their life when he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest one night at a friend’s house. Brittany started CPR right away until the paramedics arrived, but they were later given the news that only 10% of people survive who go through what he did. Keith is now on a mission to share the importance of knowing CPR and how it does save lives.
