World Restart a Heart Day 2023 focused on the critical role of immediate CPR and community AED access in saving lives. Each story highlights how quick action by bystanders, often non-professionals like partners or teammates, was key to survival.
These stories also highlight the importance of preparedness through CPR training—those who acted were either trained or guided, showing that knowing what to do makes a life-or-death difference.
Our 3 stories for 2023 share the key message of the importance of equipping everyone with these essential life-saving skills.
Here’s a summary of the stories for World Restart a Heart Day 2023:
Cliff and Alecia: Cliff suffered a cardiac arrest while sleeping. His partner Alecia, with instructions from emergency services, performed CPR until help arrived.
For their full story: click here
Heinrich’s Story
During a rugby training session, Heinrich collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest. His teammates—trained surf lifeguards—began CPR while others retrieved a newly donated AED from a locked office, breaking doors to access it. After multiple shocks and 12 minutes of CPR, Heinrich regained consciousness. Quick CPR and AED use ensured he had no heart or brain damage. He underwent heart surgery and now advocates for AEDs in all rugby clubs.
Atelea and Tianii’s Story
Atelea, a 23-year-old, went into cardiac arrest while sleeping at home. His partner Tianii had just completed first aid training and performed CPR until emergency services arrived. Atelea was later diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, an undetected heart condition. His story highlights the value of CPR skills and early medical intervention.
Read more details here.