A quick response at Carpenter Park helped restore pulse before paramedics arrived \n<\/p>\n
Three Plano lifeguards are being recognized after their rapid response helped save a man experiencing cardiac arrest at a local recreation center.<\/p>\n
According to the city of Plano, lifeguards Zane Arnold, Christopher Gardener and Brandon Lekas sprang into action on Feb. 20 when a Zelong Dong collapsed while playing table tennis at Carpenter Park Recreation Center.<\/p>\n
A Life-Saving Response<\/p>\n
When the emergency unfolded, the lifeguards immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and used an automated external defibrillator (AED), delivering two shocks before Plano Fire-Rescue crews arrived.<\/p>\n
By the time first responders reached the scene, Dong had already regained a pulse due to the lifeguards\u2019 efforts, a critical factor in survival during cardiac arrest situations.<\/p>\n
He was transported to the hospital and later discharged neurologically intact, an outcome officials say is uncommon in cases like this.<\/p>\n
Recognized For Their Actions<\/p>\n
On March 19, Plano Fire-Rescue honored the three lifeguards during a ceremony at Carpenter Park Recreation Center. Each received a certificate, patch and challenge coin in recognition of their actions. The man they helped save, along with his family, attended the ceremony to personally thank the responders and presented plaques of appreciation to paramedics and parks and recreation staff.<\/p>\n
\u201cI shouldn\u2019t be able to stand here, but I\u2019m standing here all because of you,\u201d Dong said during the event. \u201cYou are the reason I can get home and see my wife and enjoy everyday life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Training That Makes A Difference<\/p>\n
Plano Fire-Rescue officials said the lifeguards\u2019 ability to act quickly and stay calm under pressure played a critical role in the outcome.<\/p>\n
\u201cPutting that training into action without hesitation takes a special individual,\u201d said Battalion Chief Ryan Strutton. \u201cThat is not a normal thing, no matter how much training you have.\u201d<\/p>\n
Lekas said the team\u2019s response came down to preparation and teamwork. \u201cWe worked as a team, and with proper training, we were able to handle the situation,\u201d he said. \u201cAt the end of the day, life is precious.\u201d<\/p>\n
A Reminder For The Community<\/p>\n
While successful outcomes like this are rare, city officials say the incident highlights the importance of immediate CPR and access to an AED, which can significantly improve survival rates during cardiac emergencies.<\/p>\n
For Plano residents, it\u2019s also a reminder of the impact trained responders can have in critical moments and how preparation can make the difference between life and death.<\/p>\n