How ZOLL AEDs Save Lives: Real Stories from Schools, Workplaces & Gyms

When cardiac arrest strikes, time matters more than anything. ZOLL AEDs have been credited with thousands of lives saved—many by people with no medical training. The following real-life stories from ZOLL’s Heroes for Life platform show just how powerful these devices can be when paired with courage, CPR, and fast thinking.

Story 1: Teens Save a Coach in Malaysia

During an alumni soccer game, 49-year-old Long Soo Keat collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest. Five student volunteers from St. John Ambulance sprang into action. One began CPR while another retrieved the school’s ZOLL AED Plus. The device provided real-time CPR coaching and eventually delivered a life-saving shock.

"He was not breathing and had no pulse. The AED told us to push harder." – Read Full Story

Story 2: 8-Year-Old Saved at Elementary School

In West Virginia, an 8-year-old student collapsed during PE class at Scott Teays Elementary School. Teachers and staff immediately began CPR while retrieving their on-site AED. The ZOLL device provided instructions, reassured the responders, and helped them stabilize the child until EMS arrived.

"I never imagined using an AED on a child, but I’m so thankful we had it." – Read Full Story

Story 3: Office Worker Rescued in Australia

Ricki Avery, an employee at a large Australian company, collapsed in the workplace without warning. His co-workers had received CPR training and immediately grabbed the ZOLL AED Plus from their first-aid station. The AED coached them through compressions and kept him stable until paramedics arrived.

"Having the defibrillator available is the reason I survived my cardiac arrest." – Read Full Story

Story 4: Utility Worker Electrocuted in Alabama

Devin Collins, a utility worker, was electrocuted while on the job in the woods. His teammates called 911 and used the ZOLL AED mounted on their service truck. The AED’s analysis prompted a shock, and Devin regained consciousness before EMS arrived.

"Without an AED on our truck, Devin wouldn’t be here." – Read Full Story

Story 5: Senior Tennis Player Revived in Ohio

While playing tennis at a senior club, Tim Allard collapsed mid-match. His teammates retrieved a Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 AED, followed its step-by-step prompts, and delivered a life-saving shock. Tim fully recovered and returned to playing tennis.

"We trusted the AED more than the 911 operator." – Read Full Story

What These Stories Teach Us

Each of these stories shares a few common truths:

AED access = faster rescue: Having a ZOLL AED on-site made all the difference.
Voice guidance helps in panic: Even teens or seniors can respond confidently with real-time CPR instructions.
AEDs + CPR are the winning combo: Devices like ZOLL AEDs empower everyday heroes to save lives when minutes matter.

How to Prepare Your Space for Emergencies

Place AEDs in visible, accessible locations: Lobbies, gyms, cafeterias, breakrooms, classrooms, and utility vehicles.
Train your staff annually: CPR/AED training refreshers build confidence and reduce hesitation.
Track battery and pad expiry dates: ZOLL's PlusTrac™ system or monthly visual checks help you stay ready.

FAQs

Q1. Can teens or untrained adults use a ZOLL AED?
Yes. ZOLL AEDs are designed for layperson use. Voice and visual prompts guide each step.

Q2. Can an AED be used on children?
Yes. Use pediatric pads (ZOLL AED Plus) or pediatric mode (ZOLL AED 3) for children under 8 or under 55 lbs.

Q3. Will an AED shock someone unnecessarily?
No. AEDs analyze heart rhythm and only deliver a shock if a shockable rhythm like VF or pulseless VT is detected.

Q4. Where should I place an AED in my facility?
Anywhere accessible in under 90 seconds. Think gyms, reception areas, field kits, and vehicles.

Q5. How often do AEDs need maintenance?
Battery and pad replacement is typically every 4–5 years. Many AEDs run self-checks and display readiness indicators.