You never know when you will need someone to save your life. Brittany Nelson, 24, was recently saved by bystander CPR. In December 2014 she was in NYC on vacation with her family. They were at a restaurant in Times Square when Brittany went down. No one knew she had any heart condition and the family screamed for anyone who knew CPR. Two eye doctors came to her rescue and began doing Hands-Only CPR until paramedics arrived. Had it not been for Hands-Only CPR, Brittany would not have survived. Her heart had stopped beating. Once in the hospital she learned that she had an undiagnosed condition called Long QT Syndrome (LQTS).
LQTS is a heart rhythm disorder that can potentially cause fast, chaotic heartbeats. These rapid heartbeats may trigger a sudden fainting spell or seizure. In some cases, the heart may beat erratically for so long that it can cause sudden death. You can be born with a genetic mutation that puts you at risk of long QT syndrome. In addition, certain medications and medical conditions may cause LQTS.
Recently, WTXL in Tallahassee interviewed Brittany about her ordeal and you can see the interview here on WTXL.com. Also, the New York City Fire Department will be flying her family to New York in May to attend the Second Chance Brunch where Brittany will get to meet her rescuers!
Learn more about Hands-Only CPR on heart.org.
Be the first to comment