Louisville soccer player survives heart attack thanks to quick action, AED on field

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A Louisville soccer player is alive today thanks to the quick response of his teammates and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) that was available just steps away from the field.

John Schweizer, 61, is the oldest player in the 30-and-over league at the LouCity and Racing Louisville training complex. He suffered a heart attack while playing a match two weeks ago.

Schweizer was attempting to score a goal when he suddenly went into cardiac arrest.

His teammates immediately called 911 and began CPR. They also retrieved an AED, a portable device designed to help restore a normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest.

The equipment proved critical in saving his life.

Ironically, Schweizer had previously advocated for AEDs to be readily available for adult league players. He never imagined he would be the person needing one.

Now recovering from the medical emergency, Schweizer says the experience has given him a new perspective on life.

"Makes you appreciate everything. It really does. You know, I've been a very grateful person before, but now it's just a matter of appreciation of everything."

Health experts say out-of-hospital cardiac arrest affects an estimated 250,000 Americans each year. Immediate intervention can dramatically improve survival rates, especially when CPR is started right away and an AED is used quickly.

Schweizer credits his teammates, first responders and the life-saving equipment for helping him survive. As he continues his recovery, he hopes to return to the soccer field once he's healthy enough to play again.