AED vital in saving the life of a boy suffering cardiac arrest

Quick-thinking bystanders and access to a public defibrillator helped save the life of a teenage boy who collapsed during a futsal game at Sir Robert Borden High School on Greenbank Road.

According to a report by CBC News, the 15-year-old suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while participating in a school futsal tournament. Paramedics later confirmed that without the immediate actions of bystanders, the outcome could have been far more serious.
You can read the full CBC report here:
👉 Bystanders use defibrillator to help save boy in cardiac arrest

CPR and AED Used Before Paramedics Arrived

An automated external defibrillator (AED) located inside the school was quickly retrieved after the teen collapsed. A cardiologist attending the tournament immediately began CPR while others brought the AED to the scene.

A shock was delivered before paramedics arrived. Emergency crews continued resuscitation efforts and administered additional shocks until the teen’s pulse returned.

This incident highlights how essential CPR and AED training is in the first critical minutes of cardiac arrest. Learning these life-saving skills through programs such as Emergency First Aid training offered by Winnipeg First Aid helps ensure more people are prepared to act when seconds matter.

Teen in Serious but Stable Condition

The teen regained consciousness while being transported to hospital and was admitted to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, where he was reported to be in serious but stable condition.

Paramedics stated:

“Without the actions of the bystanders, the outcome might have been quite different. This event reminds us again of the importance of bystander CPR and the early application of a defibrillator.”

The Importance of Public Access Defibrillators

Paramedics also noted that this was the fifth person in Ottawa revived with the help of a public access defibrillator that year alone. The case serves as a powerful reminder of why AEDs should be readily available in schools, sports facilities, and other public spaces—and why everyday people should know how to use them.

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen without warning, even to young and healthy individuals. Early CPR combined with fast AED use significantly increases survival rates.

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.

👉 [View full credentials]🔗 View LinkedIn Profile

Last reviewed: March 2026

Serving Winnipeg and south Manitoba with the cheapest priced, highest quality first aid training, CPR and food safety courses since 2012 with a commitment to providing the best classes to Canadians.