An Ocala police officer and three Marion County first responders were recognized this week after their actions helped save a patient’s life in late August.
At around 6:45 a.m. on August 30, 2023, a 911 caller reported that a 51-year-old man was suffering from cardiac arrest. Ocala Police Department Officer Zach Schueller was the first to arrive on scene, and he immediately began performing CPR on the male patient, according to OPD.
Three members of Marion County Fire Rescue’s Medic 65 unit – Caitlin McClure (paramedic), Chelsea Shippee (EMT), and Bethany Smith (captain) – soon arrived on scene along with several Ocala Fire Rescue units.
MCFR stated that crew members were able to quickly package and transport the patient while they continued to perform medical interventions.
While heading to the hospital, MCFR crews managed to achieve the return of spontaneous circulation, and the patient was intubated and defibrillated upon arrival at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.
According to MCFR, the patient was taken to the cath lab, and it was discovered that he had “100% blockage.” After receiving the necessary care at the hospital, he was able to return home to his family within a few days.
During a gathering that was held at the hospital on Monday, MCFR Medic 65’s crew members, OPD Officer Schueller, and medical staff were able to meet the appreciative patient.
The crew members from Medic 65 received a certificate of recognition for their cardiac arrest save. “Thank you to everyone involved, you guys are true life savers,” stated MCFR on its Facebook page.
Officer Schueller also received a Lifesaver Award from HCA Florida Ocala Hospital in recognition of his pivotal role in saving the patient’s life.
In a social media post, OPD called Officer Schueller a “real hero,” and the police department thanked HCA Florida Ocala Hospital for recognizing their officer.