Dr. Powell and his daughter
Earlier this year, Memorial Health’s Gregory Powell, MD, experienced something he never expected—becoming the patient.
Despite having no history of heart problems, Dr. Powell suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home. His daughter immediately began CPR while his wife called 911, keeping blood flowing until EMS arrived and restored his heart rhythm.
“If my daughter hadn’t been there, I’d have died,” Dr. Powell said.
Now recovered, Dr. Powell is sharing his story to encourage others to learn CPR. Memorial Health EMS Supervisor Jacolby Parsons says anyone can perform chest compressions, even without formal training, and acting quickly can save a life.
A simple way to remember the correct pace is to aim for about 100 compressions per minute – the beat of songs like Stayin’ Alive, Baby Shark, and Dynamite.
Dr. Powell hopes his experience reminds others that cardiac arrest can happen to anyone and knowing CPR could help save the life of someone you love.