CPR and Quick Action Save Man’s Life at Senators–Canadiens Game

A 64-year-old man is alive today because bystanders knew what to do.

During a home game between the Ottawa Senators and the Montreal Canadiens at the Canadian Tire Centre, the man suddenly suffered cardiac arrest while seated in the stands. According to Ottawa paramedics, he would not have survived if fellow fans had not immediately stepped in to help.

Trained Fans Act Without Hesitation

Lori Vanderlinden, who was seated in the 200 section, initially thought there was a disturbance in the crowd when she heard people yelling. As soon as she heard someone call for a medic, she realized the situation was serious.

When the man slumped over in his seat, Vanderlinden rushed to him and immediately began CPR.

“He didn’t seem to have a pulse and was non-responsive,” she said. “I feel badly for his wife. It was an awful thing for her.”

Her quick response was critical. In cases of sudden cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR significantly reduces the chance of survival.

CPR Knowledge Makes the Difference

Vanderlinden was soon assisted by Lars Thompson, a physician, along with several other nearby spectators who were also trained in CPR and ready to help.

“The most amazing thing was how many people were willing to help and how many people knew CPR,” Thompson said. “And how quickly the medical staff got here.”

Situations like this highlight the importance of accessible CPR education. When more people are trained, communities are safer, and outcomes improve during medical emergencies.

The Chain of Survival in Action

When paramedics arrived, they took over advanced life-saving care. The man was administered resuscitative medications and shocked with a defibrillator before being transported to Queensway-Carleton Hospital.

“Before we brought him down to our vehicle for transportation to hospital, the gentleman had regained a pulse at that time,” said Ottawa paramedic spokesperson J.P. Trottier. “Still unconscious, but we managed to regain a pulse.”

By the following day, the man’s condition had improved from critical to serious.

Trottier credited the successful outcome to what emergency responders refer to as the chain of survival—early recognition, immediate CPR, rapid defibrillation, and professional medical care.

“Had it not been for all of those things lined up,” he said, “I don’t think he would be alive.”

You can read the full original story as reported by CBC News here: 👉 Man suffers cardiac arrest in stands during Sens, Habs game

Why CPR Training Matters

This incident serves as a powerful reminder that cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—at a hockey game, at work, or at home. Ordinary people with CPR training can make an extraordinary difference.

CPR equips individuals with the skills and confidence to act quickly while waiting for emergency responders. If you want to be prepared to help in a similar situation, consider enrolling in CPR and AED training courses through Winnipeg First Aid.

Learn How You Can Help

Being trained in CPR and first aid allows you to respond effectively when every second counts.

For more information about CPR and cardiac arrest, visit these trusted medical resources:

Medical News Today – CPR Overview
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151444.php
WebMD – CPR Treatment Guide
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/cardiopulmonary-resuscitation-cpr-treatment
Mayo Clinic – CPR Basics
https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-cpr/basics/art-20056600

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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