College Student Saves Her Dad Thanks to CPR Training at Damar Hamlin's Alma Mater
A Life-Saving Connection
In August 2024, Ellie Breech, a student-athlete at the University of Pittsburgh, found herself in a life-or-death situation when her father, Ed Breech, a seasoned ER nurse, suffered a cardiac arrest. Thanks to her recent CPR training at the same university where Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin once studied, Ellie was able to act swiftly and save her father's life.
CPR Training at the University of Pittsburgh
A few months after Damar Hamlin’s highly publicized cardiac arrest during an NFL game, the University of Pittsburgh took proactive steps to ensure their athletes were equipped with CPR training. Around 400 athletes, including Ellie, were trained in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
For Ellie, a soccer goalie, this training was a refresher course. She had previously learned these life-saving skills while working as a lifeguard in her hometown of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Additionally, Ellie grew up hearing about CPR’s importance from her father, who frequently used it in his role as an ER nurse.
A Christmas Day Emergency
Ellie's CPR training was put to the test on Christmas Day. After working a night shift, Ed returned home and, following the family’s tradition, opened presents with his wife, Maggie, Ellie, and her brother, Mack. Ed then went to the basement for a nap.
Maggie soon noticed something was wrong when she heard Ed making an unusual loud snoring sound. Upon investigating, she found Ed unresponsive and immediately called for help. Ellie, hearing the commotion, rushed downstairs and started performing CPR on her father. She continued CPR for nine intense minutes until first responders arrived.
The Role of CPR in Ed's Survival
When the police arrived, they used an AED on Ed, but it indicated a "nonshockable" heart rhythm, meaning CPR was the only option until further medical assistance could be provided. EMTs arrived shortly after and transported Ed to the ER where he worked.
Ed’s condition was critical. His lungs filled with fluid, and more CPR was needed before doctors put him on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine, which took over the function of his heart and lungs.
A Remarkable Recovery
After five days on the ECMO machine, Ed's condition began to improve. His breathing tube was removed, and as the sedatives wore off, he was able to recognize his daughter. "Thank you for saving my life," he whispered to Ellie, a moment that deeply touched the entire family.
The family celebrated Ed’s recovery with a stuffed pug toy, symbolizing the rescue pugs they had adopted over the years. Nurses even dressed up the toy for New Year’s, adding a festive touch to the situation.
Ellie's Future in Medicine
Ellie’s quick thinking and her ability to remain calm in a crisis were key to her father's survival. Inspired by this experience, Ellie, who was previously studying engineering, now plans to pursue a career in medicine. She jokes with her father that he didn’t need to have a cardiac event to convince her to follow in his footsteps.
A Special Honor
In February, Ellie and Ed were honored at a Pitt men's basketball game, where they were recognized as healthcare heroes. Damar Hamlin, who had also experienced a life-threatening cardiac event, presented Ellie with an award, acknowledging her bravery and skill in saving her father’s life.
The Power of CPR
The experience has given both Ed and Ellie a renewed appreciation for the life-saving power of CPR. Their dinner table conversations about CPR have taken on new meaning, and Ellie credits her father for teaching her to be "very, very fearless."
Conclusion
Ellie’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of CPR training. Her father’s life was saved because of her quick actions and the training she received. The Breech family’s journey highlights the critical role of CPR in emergencies and the profound impact it can have on the lives of loved ones.
