Larry Schlepp, from Billings, was visiting family when an ordinary Sunday turned into a life-or-death moment. His daughter, Carrie Etcheberry, was with him. While they were having breakfast, Larry made an unusual sound and became unresponsive.
As a nurse, Carrie knew what to do. “I just started CPR,” she said. It was surreal for her to be performing it on a family member. With the help of her son and husband, they got Larry on the floor and continued CPR until help arrived.
When the fire department showed up, they used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to revive him. AEDs are crucial during cardiac emergencies; they assess heart rhythms and can deliver shocks to restore a proper heartbeat. Larry was then rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered he had experienced cardiac arrest because of a serious heart rhythm issue. He needed a defibrillator implant to prevent future episodes.
This wasn’t Larry’s first health scare. He had a heart attack in 2013 that required open-heart surgery. Thankfully, he returned to the same care team for his recovery.
Now, Larry was focused on his rehabilitation, which involved a structured program aimed at rebuilding strength and stamina. On his first day, he joked with the staff about recognizing the place, and they quickly reminded him he wasn’t a stranger there.
Dr. Joe Apostol, an interventional cardiologist, highlighted the importance of recognizing early signs of heart issues. “Feeling tired or faint can indicate serious problems,” he said.
Months later, Larry and Carrie reflected on their ordeal. “We’re just grateful he’s still here,” Carrie said. She also emphasized the importance of CPR training, noting, “It only takes a few hours, and it can save a life.”
Larry expressed deep gratitude, saying, “I feel lucky. If this had happened anywhere else, I might not be here. I can’t put into words how thankful I am for her.”
This story reminds us of the critical importance of being prepared for emergencies. CPR skills can be lifesaving, and knowing the basics can make all the difference.
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,Intermountain Health
