Paramedics gave him a 10% survival chance after his heart stopped. Then his fiance yanked him back from death

Life is extremely uncertain — one moment you're enjoying your dream vacation with your partner, and in the next, you're sprawled across the floor, crying over a medical emergency. Katherine Dodd — who goes by the username @homewithkat_ on Instagram — nearly lost her boyfriend, Adam, due to cardiac arrest, and even though the paramedics said he wouldn’t make it, her 16-minute CPR gave him a fighting chance.

The night of June 4, 3 years ago, was a usual one for Katherine and her boyfriend when they kissed each other goodnight and went off to sleep side by side. But fate intervened, and at around 2 AM, Katherine woke up to her boyfriend’s still body turning blue. Between frantic yells and dialing the hospital, Katherine conducted CPR on her partner for the entire 16 minutes it took for paramedics to get there. Adam was given a 1/10 survival chance, slipping into a 4-day coma shortly upon reaching the hospital.

Katherine wasn't sure he would wake up, but, against all odds, he did. The following 3 months went by with him recovering from the physical disorders his body had assumed. Adam had been yanked back from the other side for a love waiting for him at home. 2 years later, Adam and Katherine got married, their wedding toast reminding guests that Adam was here on a miracle. Today, Katherine recounts crying out "you just cannot die" multiple times on that fateful night. It was her timely CPR that gave Adam the remote possibility of recovery. Without it, his brain would have died or suffered serious damage before getting any medical attention. Through her story, Katherine wants to raise awareness for CPR training, claiming that the 15-minute course can save the lives of your loved ones, especially since tragedy rarely comes with a warning.

A study by Sanela Pivač sheds light on the importance of having CPR training as part of the school curriculum, as it can not only help save lives but also increase empathy and a willingness to help others at a young age. Especially for single parents who are home with a child, giving them first-aid training is crucial, not just for their injuries but for the parent's too. Along with this, they should know how to call for an ambulance, what to say on call with 911, and how to keep a calm head around emergencies. While these may feel like overly serious topics for a kid, the ignorance could cost them their lives.

The heartwarming video attracted loads of kind comments. @shae_cachet shared her experience, “I was trained in CPR, performed it on a stranger for over 18 minutes, and he survived. He’s now on year 6 of a second chance. CPR saves lives!” @our_bears_home wrote, “This made me cry, you guys are amazing and such an important message. Well done for raising awareness,” while @maximumhomeinterior praised Kat, “You're sending such an important message out. Such an incredible story of determination and bravery for both of you.”

You can follow Katherine Dodd (@homewithkat_) on Instagram for more lifestyle content.