Norm Kilcomons, a 74-year-old from Farmington, once found himself in a life-threatening situation on the tennis court. On September 5th, during a doubles tennis game at the Farmington Club, he suddenly collapsed. Miraculously, he is now alive to share his story.

UConn Health's Heroic Efforts in Saving a Life

Section 1: The Collapse and Immediate Response

Norm had no prior symptoms; he was completely unaware of the two major heart artery blockages that had developed. His friends on the tennis court, Don Grayson and Brian Preleski, were there and quickly sprang into action, administering bystander CPR. The Farmington Police and Fire departments, along with American Medical Response (AMR) paramedics Brittany Thibault and Klejda Doda, also responded promptly. They applied an AED and successfully restarted Norm's heart, restoring his pulse. Norm was then rushed to UConn by ambulance.

Section 2: The Critical Care at UConn Health

Upon arrival at UConn, Norm needed immediate stabilization. Interventional cardiologist Dr. JuYong Lee and his team deployed two cardiac stents in the Cardiac Cath Lab to open up his heart artery blockages and restore healthy blood flow. He was also placed in a medically-induced coma for several days and underwent hypothermia therapeutic cooling techniques to limit any potential damage to his heart and other vital organs. The medical professionals at UConn Health, including doctors from emergency medicine, cardiology, the ICU, neurology, and pulmonary, along with APRNs and nurses, were all attentive and caring.

Section 3: The Family's Gratitude and Support

Norm's wife Charlene is filled with gratitude. She recalls the team effort of the medical staff and how everyone was professional and caring. Their nurse, Anna Rejnin, RN, was especially remarkable, trimming Norm's mustache and eyebrows and providing excellent care. Pulmonologist Dr. Omar Ibrahim also played a crucial role, taking the time to explain things to Charlene. The family is also grateful to their friends and neighbors who provided support during this difficult time, from prepared meals to cards and flowers.

Section 4: Recovery and Looking Forward

As part of his recovery, Norm attends his cardiac rehab program at UConn Health three days a week. He is looking forward to a special Christmas with his family and returning to his beloved racquet sports, golf, and skiing. His story is a testament to the power of medical care and the support of loved ones.