In a dramatic turn of events at a Little League baseball game in Ladera Heights, a local umpire’s life was saved by an off-duty doctor after he suffered a heart attack on the field. Witnesses described a scene of chaos as the umpire collapsed near home plate, leaving players and spectators in shock.
Within moments of the incident, the crowd erupted in panic, calling for help. Fortunately, Dr. Pool, a physician from Cedars-Sinai, was in attendance. Despite her lack of emergency room experience, she sprang into action, racing onto the field to begin CPR. “The adrenaline was pumping, and my heart was racing,” she recalled. “You just know you have to act.”
For seven grueling minutes, Dr. Pool performed CPR, her determination unwavering as she fought to revive the umpire, identified as Jeff. “I felt like I was in a fight for his life,” she said. Eyewitnesses watched in awe as she directed bystanders, ensuring everyone played a role in the life-saving effort.
Paramedics arrived shortly after, utilizing a defibrillator to restore Jeff’s heartbeat. He has since expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing the importance of CPR training and access to defibrillators in community spaces. “If things go wrong, we need to be ready to help,” he urged.
Jeff, now recovering, is eager to return to the field, driven by a newfound passion for the game and a mission to educate others on the critical skills that saved his life. “I have teachings to pass on to the next generation,” he declared, embodying resilience and hope. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of quick action in emergencies and the power of community support.