LAKEWOOD, Ohio — Stephen Sroka from Lakewood said CPR and an AED saved his life when he went into sudden cardiac arrest in 2016.
He understands what Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin experienced on Monday night in Cincinnati. Hamlin collapsed after making a tackle and had to be resuscitated on the field after going into cardiac arrest.
"As soon as I saw him go down, I said to my wife, 'that looks like a cardiac arrest,' because that's what happened to me," Sroka said.
Similar to what doctors said about Hamlin, Sroka said time, technology and trained staff are the reason he's still alive today.
"I should be dead, I am so blessed to be here and if it wasn't for CPR and AED, I would be dead," Sroka said.
He was giving a presentation at Medina High School when he collapsed on stage.
Two school resource officers and the assistant principal jumped into action.
"They were on me within probably half a minute, cutting off my clothes, getting the CPR going," Sroka said.
He's been an advocate for CPR and AED training ever since. Thankfully Hamlin's medical condition has improved and Sroka said the tragic situation can be used as a teachable moment.
"Learn CPR, find out about AEDs, because you might just possibly be the person that is going to save the person you love the most in your life," Sroka said.
The American Red Cross is sharing a similar sentiment, releasing this statement:
“Our thoughts are with Damar Hamlin, his family and the entire NFL community, and we are hopeful he has a fast and full recovery.
Accidents and emergencies can happen anytime at home, in the workplace or in the community. Every second counts when sudden cardiac arrest occurs, and it’s critical to know what to do in an emergency. If you see someone collapse and you don’t know CPR, call or have someone else call 911, start Hands-Only CPR and use an AED if one is available.
The Red Cross recommends this lifesaving training for everyone, including parents, grandparents and caregivers. Red Cross First Aid training takes only a few hours and can give you the skills and confidence to act in an emergency and help save a life.”
Sroka told 3News he hopes to see more AEDs in public places.
"My big tips to everyone is to be prepared not scared, it could happen to anyone," he said.