(L-R): Khairul Roslan, RLSSWA President Vaughan Davies, Dr Marie-Michelle Chabanis, Jack Hadley, Luca Gangemi, Adam Anistino and WA Governor Chris Dawson APM

Sauna heart attack victim saved by lifeguards

His shift started like any other, but lifeguard Luca Gangemi will always remember the April day when he called a ‘Code Blue’ at Cockburn ARC.

The 17-year-old was patrolling when he heard people calling out for help from the sauna after Gary, a patron at the pool, collapsed from a heart attack.

Luca immediately called for help and was joined by fellow lifeguards Khai, Adam and Jack with all three working together to manage the scene and perform CPR.

“To be honest I can’t really remember it too much because it was such a shock. After I had radioed it in and a couple of other lifeguards came and helped me, I remember calming down a lot,” said Luca.

The lifeguards were soon joined by doctor, Marie-Michelle, who was in the steam room when she heard the commotion. The doctor determined Gary wasn’t breathing and had no pulse and the group administered a defibrillator and provided oxygen.

After being shocked three times, Gary regained consciousness just as paramedics arrived. He went on to receive a triple bypass and make a full recovery.

Luca’s mother, Cindy was overwhelmed with emotion when her son called her and told her what happened that day.

“To assist administering chest compressions at age 17 and be told by Gary’s doctor afterwards that the CPR was administered so well that he had no cognitive impairment was just astounding,” she said.

“To be involved in something so special as bringing someone back to life at his age is a huge moment in all our lives.”

Luca, the other young lifeguards, and Marie-Michelle all received Bravery Awards from Royal Life Saving WA at a ceremony at the State Reception Centre.

“I was honoured to receive my award and so relieved that we were able to save Gary’s life that day. It was also incredibly inspiring to hear some of the stories from others at the awards,” said Luca.

“It was a very surreal moment to speak with the survivor and hear how grateful he and his family are, it was a special day and not one we will forget,” said Cindy.

If you know someone who has stepped up to help save another person’s life you can nominate them for a Bravery Award at the link below.