Man Saved by MRU Students Donates Defibrillators to School
Quick thinking, proper training, and immediate access to life-saving equipment made all the difference for Ayaz Kara — and now he’s paying it forward.
After finishing a squash game at Mount Royal University, Kara collapsed in a locker room after suffering a sudden heart attack. What could have been a tragic outcome instead became a powerful reminder of how CPR training and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) save lives.
Trained Students Took Immediate Action
Three Mount Royal University students, all trained in first aid, quickly recognized the signs of cardiac arrest. They immediately began CPR and retrieved an automated external defibrillator located nearby.
The AED analyzed Kara’s heart rhythm and delivered a shock, successfully helping to restore his heartbeat before emergency responders arrived. Thanks to their fast response and proper training, Kara survived.
This life-saving incident was originally reported by CBC News, highlighting how immediate CPR and AED use can dramatically improve survival outcomes during cardiac emergencies.
👉 Read the original CBC article here:
Man saved by MRU students donates defibrillators to school
Turning Gratitude Into Action
Grateful to the students who saved his life, Kara chose to give back in a meaningful way. He donated five additional AEDs to Mount Royal University, hoping they would help protect others facing similar emergencies.
“I think what happened to me — a lot of people can be saved if they get the right treatment at the right time,” Kara said. He also shared plans to continue fundraising to place AEDs in locations where they are most needed.
Why AEDs Matter
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device designed to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It works by:
Monitoring the heart’s rhythm
Determining if a shock is required
Providing clear voice prompts to guide the user
AEDs are designed for public use and can be safely operated by trained bystanders, making them essential in schools, gyms, workplaces, and community spaces.
Cardiac Arrest in Canada: A Serious Reality
Approximately 40,000 cardiac arrests occur in Canada each year. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, using an AED along with CPR can increase survival chances by 75% or more when applied quickly.
The Importance of CPR and AED Training
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) combined with AED training empowers everyday people to act confidently when seconds matter most. The actions of the MRU students show how proper training can turn bystanders into lifesavers.
If you want to be prepared to respond in a cardiac emergency, consider enrolling in CPR and AED training courses offered by Winnipeg First Aid.
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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