Heroic Act Saves Life on Flight to US Sports Congress

In December 2013, PDGA Executive Director Brian Graham was headed to the US Sports Congress in Reno, Nevada. What started as a routine flight turned into a dramatic scene when a passenger sitting behind Graham began convulsing and went into cardiac arrest. The plane had just taken off, and other passengers quickly sprang into action, laying the unconscious man on the floor of the aisle.

Fortunately, an EMT happened to be on board, who immediately checked the passenger's vitals and announced that he was no longer breathing and had no pulse. Without hesitation, the EMT began CPR, repeatedly pressing down on the passenger's chest to preserve brain function. As the plane taxied back towards the gate, the EMT retrieved an AED device from the flight attendants and used it to deliver a life-saving electrical shock.

The passenger's heart was restarted, and his pulse and breathing were restored by the time emergency responders arrived at the gate. This heroic act highlights the importance of CPR training and the use of AED devices in saving lives. Since 2004, all commercial planes have been required to carry an AED device on board.

In response to this incident, the PDGA's Events Manager Michael Downes organized first aid training for all staff members, including basic first aid and CPR certification. The International Disc Golf Center has also purchased two new AED devices, one of which is located at their facility in Appling, Georgia, while the other is kept in the PDGA Tour trailer.

The PDGA Tour trailer travels to various national tour and major events throughout the country, and having an AED device on hand can be a lifesaver. As the popularity of disc golf continues to grow, so does the need for better safety measures. The addition of these AED devices is just one step towards creating a safer environment for players, volunteers, and spectators.

The PDGA would like to thank American CPR Training for their AED Grant Program, which made it possible for them to acquire these life-saving devices. If you're interested in becoming CPR or AED certified, contact American CPR Training directly for more information on their safety and first aid courses.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/playing-it-safe