HCA Florida Northside Hospital caregivers reunite with patient

On the afternoon of March 13, Stan Stankovich was enjoying a game of pickleball with friends at Walter Fuller Park when he suddenly collapsed to the ground. Friends and bystanders immediately called 911 and ran to the nearby pool to alert the lifeguards on duty. Without hesitation, the lifeguards grabbed their AED and responded to the pickleball court. They sprang into action performing CPR and delivering two shocks from the AED, after which Mr. Stankovich’s heart began beating again and he regained consciousness. St. Petersburg Fire Rescue and Sunstar arrived to continue treatment and transported the patient to HCA Florida Northside Hospital for cardiac care. Although he required continuous monitoring and intensive care from the staff at HCA Florida Northside Hospital, Mr. Stankovich was able to walk out of the hospital feeling well and rejuvenated just a few days later. On Friday, March 31 all of the heroes involved where able to reunite with Mr. Stankovich and his family at the pickle ball courts.  In addition to HCA Florida Northside Hospital caregivers others in attendance were Walter Fuller Pool Lifeguards, St. Petersburg Fire Rescue crews and Sunstar crews. Reliving the tragic event that resulted in a great outcome was a way for all responders and healthcare workers to visualize the benefits of the hard work they perform daily and the team work it takes.