Off-Duty Health Workers and Good Samaritan Save Man from Cardiac Arrest

Quick thinking, CPR training, and access to an automated external defibrillator (AED) made the difference between life and death for a 62-year-old man who collapsed outside a Saskatoon retail store.

According to a report by CBC News, John Tomchuk suffered sudden cardiac arrest while loading groceries into his vehicle at Preston Crossing’s Walmart in Saskatoon. The full original report can be read on CBC’s website Off-duty health workers, Good Samaritan save man from cardiac arrest

A Sudden Medical Emergency

Tomchuk’s daughter, Lisa Wass, said her father remembers very little from the incident.

“He fell. He doesn’t remember anything other than thinking that something was wrong,” she explained.

Her father collapsed on the ground in front of the store, where two off-duty health-care workers and an unknown Good Samaritan immediately stepped in to help.

CPR and AED Use Save a Life

The off-duty health workers quickly checked for breathing and began CPR without hesitation. At the same time, the Good Samaritan ran inside Walmart searching for an AED. When told none was available, the individual ran to a nearby Cabela’s store and successfully located one.

The AED was brought back to the scene and used before emergency crews arrived. Paramedics later confirmed that the early CPR and AED use were critical in saving Tomchuk’s life.

Emergency Crews Take Over

Emergency Medical Services arrived shortly afterward and Continued treatment. Thanks to the fast response from bystanders, Tomchuk regained consciousness and was alert before being transported by ambulance to hospital. He remains in critical care, but his family is deeply grateful.

“My dad said again this morning, ‘I would be dead if that store hadn’t been carrying one,’” Wass shared.

Why CPR Training Matters

This incident highlights how essential CPR and AED training are. Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, and immediate action by trained bystanders can dramatically improve survival.

Learn More

You can learn how to respond confidently in emergencies by enrolling in a first aid and CPR course. For additional information, explore these trusted resources:

Being prepared saves lives. Learn the skills that can make a difference when every second counts.

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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