Cardiac Arrest Patient Survives to Meet Her Heroes

Jan 5th, 2021

On Tuesday, October 13, 2020, Mobile Fire-Rescue crews responded to Springhill Toyota (3062 Government Blvd) for a patient in cardiac arrest. Upon arriving on scene, first responders were led to the patient - Lisa Perry, grandmother of 10 - where they discovered that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was already in progress.

Three good-natured bystanders witnessed the arrest and jumped to action, beginning chest compressions, locating and applying a nearby auto external defibrillator (AED), and calling 911 for emergency help. MFRD would learn later that the 3 women who swooped in to save the day are all nurses who were off-duty, did not know each other, and were all in Springhill Toyota for separate, unrelated reasons.

The civilian nurses had performed several rounds of outstanding chest compressions and shocked Perry’s heart three times with the AED prior to MFRD arrival.

As paramedics and EMTs from Rescue 19 and Engine 19 assumed patient care, an additional shock was applied (along with other lifesaving interventions). Though faint and weak, Perry’s pulse returned. She was immediately transported to a local hospital, where she continued to battle for survival, spending weeks in a medically-induced coma in the ICU, receiving treatment, care, and undergoing recovery.

Perry, indeed, survived and was released from hospital care. Following her ordeal, she expressed great desire for the opportunity to meet the civilians and responders who worked together to save her life.

Today, her wish was granted!

Fire Chief Lami and MFRD proudly presented awards for all involved in this lifesaving event.

Excellence in Business Award:

Springhill Toyota

Civilian Lifesaving Award:

Shennon Lambeth

Cindy Hubbart

MaKayla Reed

Lifesaving Award:

Cpt. Todd Norsworthy

Driver John Hall

Driver Evan Seaman