02/03/2026
Don was at his local gym for swim practice when his heart stopped in the pool.
His coach pulled him out and started chest compressions. A teammate ran to call 911. Another sprinted to get the gym’s automated external defibrillator, or AED.
According to Don’s smartwatch, his heart stopped for 22 minutes. But he recovered. He’s still swimming (although at an easier pace), because of bystanders who acted fast.
Don has also become an advocate for CPR and AED training. “I don't hesitate to give my story. I want to do whatever I can to raise awareness, because miracles can happen.”
Be ready to help save a teen or adult by knowing the two steps of Hands-Only CPR: Call 911, then push hard and fast in the center of the chest until help arrives.
Walgreens is a national sponsor of American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers.