Photo: Cardiac arrest survivor Melanie Bowersock (center) stands with rescuers at Great Save Award ceremony; photo by Lorrie Gardner, Columbus Division of Fire
Fairfield Medical Center (FMC) and Community Heart Watch (CHW) honored the coordinated efforts of first responders and community heroes during a Great Save Award assembly on Friday, July 24, at Lancaster Fire Engine House 1. The event celebrated the remarkable survival of Melanie Bowersock, 43, of Athens, following sudden cardiac arrest.
Great Save Awards recognize the chain of survival that gives cardiac arrest patients the greatest chance of recovery – from the bystanders who immediately render aid to the emergency crews and hospital caregivers who provide lifesaving transport and treatment.
“These gatherings are a meaningful way to illustrate the power of community as we applaud our local EMS crews and bystanders,” said Deserae Belcher, FMC employee and event organizer. “Without their help, patients like Melanie could have immensely different outcomes.”
During the event, Melanie was reunited with the individuals who helped save her life after she collapsed while shopping at a local business in May. Off-duty nurse Leila Pascarella and off-duty Columbus firefighter Ken Rookard rushed to begin CPR and use the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED) before Lancaster Medic 502 arrived, providing critical early intervention that significantly improved chances of survival.
After an emergency procedure at FMC, physicians determined Melanie’s condition was caused by a coronary blockage that disrupted her heart’s electrical signals. Today, she has made an extraordinary recovery and continues to share her story to raise awareness about the importance of learning CPR and understanding the signs of cardiac arrest.
“Every link in the chain of survival matters, and time is of the essence,” said Dr. John Lazarus, FMC cardiologist and Community Heart Watch champion. “Melanie’s story demonstrates how prepared bystanders and access to AEDs can mean the difference between life and death. She is the embodiment of the Community Heart Watch mission.”
Coincidentally, more than a year before Melanie’s medical emergency, an employee of the business where Melanie collapsed had engaged with CHW volunteers at a local event. That interaction led the employee to discuss the importance of AEDs with her workplace leaders, who then obtained a device for the business. At the time, they had no idea how pivotal a role it would play in the survival of a customer.
“It’s also important to note that studies show women are significantly less likely to receive bystander CPR because of the public’s concern about whether or not it’s appropriate to perform chest compressions,” Dr. Lazarus added. “Let this be a reminder that the process for responding to cardiac emergencies is the same for everyone: Call 911, press hard and fast in the center of the chest and use an AED. You could save a life.”
Community Heart Watch is a partnership of community volunteers and Fairfield Medical Center team members dedicated to improving cardiac arrest survival through education, training and expanded access to AEDs throughout the community.