UPDATE: A remarkable turnaround is taking place in Wales as 17-year-old Sam Booth, a survivor of a cardiac arrest, is leading a vital initiative to teach CPR in schools. This urgent campaign comes after Sam’s near-fatal experience on January 15, 2023, during a basketball game in Liverpool, where he collapsed in front of his mother, Sarah Booth, who was in the stands celebrating her birthday.
Just over a year ago, Sam collapsed on the court after being substituted out of the game, shocking his teammates and onlookers. Immediate action from his fellow players and coaches, along with the availability of a defibrillator, saved his life. Sam’s survival is a stark reminder of the importance of rapid response in emergencies.
Following a month in hospital and fears of needing a heart transplant, Sam has returned to school in Llanberis, Wales, and is back on the basketball court. He now plays for both Caernarfon U18s and Cheshire Phoenix U18s, determined to seize every opportunity.
“I can’t remember anything from that day, but hearing my parents’ perspective made me realize how serious it was,” Sam said. He experienced a cardiac arrest due to a congenital heart defect, which was identified and surgically corrected. The teenager acknowledges that he is lucky to be alive, especially as survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Wales are alarmingly low—just 1 in 20.
Sam’s experience has ignited a passion for raising awareness about CPR and the need for everyone to be trained in lifesaving skills. He is now actively supporting the British Heart Foundation Cymru initiative, which provides free digital CPR training to school pupils across Wales. The program, known as Classroom RevivR, aims to educate students aged 11 to 16 about the critical differences between cardiac arrest and heart attacks, how to respond in emergencies, and how to use a defibrillator.
“CPR training is crucial. People think cardiac arrest only happens to older individuals, but it can occur at any age. If it’s someone you care about, you must know how to help,” Sam emphasized.
Since his cardiac arrest, Sam has adopted a proactive approach to his health, using a heart tracker to monitor his condition and always ensuring a defibrillator is accessible during games. He has also undergone regular check-ups with his cardiologist to manage his health effectively.
With more than 120 schools in Wales already signed up for the Classroom RevivR program, Sam hopes to see even more participation. As coronary heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in Wales, he is determined to make a difference by sharing his story and encouraging others to learn CPR.
“I sometimes see my experience as a burden, but I’m grateful it has raised awareness. If my story saves even one life, it’s worth it,” Sam stated.
Sam’s journey has also influenced Basketball Wales to implement a new strategy that includes heart screening for players and CPR training for coaches, ensuring that the sport prioritizes player health and safety.
As Sam continues his recovery and plays the sport he loves, he aims to inspire others to embrace life and cherish every moment, proving that even in the face of adversity, a positive impact can emerge.
