A Second Chance at Life: Cardiac Arrest Survivor Reunites with His Lifesaving Team
It was a typical Sunday evening for Owen—quiet time at home with his family and a walk with the dog. “Nothing unusual,” he recalls. “I had just gotten back from walking the dog, took off my shoes, and then collapsed on the floor. My wife, Jaime, was nearby and heard the fall.”
In that moment, Owen’s heart stopped. Without warning, he went into sudden cardiac arrest.
There were no major symptoms leading up to that day, but looking back, Owen reflects on subtle signs. “I didn’t feel any different that day. But over the past few years, my cardio had really diminished. I later found out I have ARVC—a genetic heart defect that worsens with exercise—and a PFO, a hole in my heart that reduced my blood oxygen levels.”
It was a perfect storm. But thanks to Jaime’s quick response and CPR training, Owen’s story didn’t end there. As a preschool teacher, Jaime was required to stay current on her CPR certification—something that proved lifesaving. “If she didn’t know CPR, I probably wouldn’t be here,” Owen said. “She had just refreshed her training not long before. I’m lucky.”
When the Bellevue Fire paramedics and Eastside Fire and Rescue firefighters arrived on the scene, they took over with precision and care—defibrillating Owen multiple times before successfully reviving him. And recently, Owen got the rare opportunity to thank them in person.
Reuniting with the emergency team who helped save his life was deeply emotional—for both sides. “I think it’s pretty unique and meaningful when you can say someone’s life was saved because of what you do,” Owen said. “Meeting them was incredible. They’re smart, passionate, and genuinely care. It takes a special type of person to do this work.”
During the reunion, Owen presented those who responded to his emergency with a challenge coin—a fire service tradition symbolizing honor, commitment, and community. “For the crews on this call, this opportunity to see Owen smiling and standing with us again is truly incredible,” said one of the medics. “You’re a product of all the right things lining up: quick action from your wife, guidance from dispatch, the EMS team, and hospital staff all working in sync.”
Owen and his family also shared a heartfelt letter:
“Words cannot fully express the gratitude we feel for what you’ve done. You’ve forever become a part of our family story, and we will always be thankful for your care, expertise, and compassion.”
Owen now shares his story in the hopes that it will inspire others to learn CPR. “You never think it’ll happen to you or someone you love—until it does. It’s such a simple thing to learn, and it can save a life. It saved mine.”
