In early August, a 24-year-old runner collapsed on the track at Austin High School in Texas after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Dominic Fusco, a co-founder of the health and wellness platform Upspace and known for his social media presence with 53K Instagram followers, was recording mile times with friends according to his usual routine.
A certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, Fusco hydrated with water and electrolytes the night before. Rising early the next day to beat the heat, he ran despite feeling a touch of nervousness, aiming for a personal best mile time. However, after crossing the finish line at 5:15, Fusco’s joy was short-lived. He collapsed with no pulse and struggled to breathe. Fortunately, a firefighter was present, and immediate CPR and medical aid were provided.
Fusco was then rushed to the ICU at Dell Seton Medical Center, where ventilation support became essential. After hours of unconsciousness, he miraculously responded to his mother’s touch, although his journey to recovery was challenging.
Despite numerous tests, the exact cause of the cardiac event remained uncertain. An enlarged heart was detected, affecting its efficiency in pumping blood. There was also a concern of Long QT syndrome, a disorder known to cause erratic heart rhythms.
To prevent future episodes, a defibrillator was implanted, offering some comfort to him and his family. He was left perplexed, questioning how a fit athlete could experience such an event. Upon sharing his ordeal on social media, Fusco discovered that many young, seemingly healthy athletes had also suffered sudden cardiac arrests. This revelation emphasized the need for thorough testing to uncover potential risks.
Fusco’s mission shifted from sharing fitness content to advocating for a health-conscious mindset. His experience stands as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing well-being and maintaining vigilance in physical activities.
Reflecting on his close call, Fusco urges everyone to learn CPR, highlighting its potential to save lives. He says he would have died were it not for CPR and is grateful to be alive.