PHX Reporter

A Mesa resident, Thomas Dille, credits first responders and medical professionals for saving his life after he suffered a cardiac arrest at work. "I thought I was gone," Dille stated. "It’s such a miracle that I’m here today, and I couldn’t be more grateful to everyone who helped me stay alive despite the odds."

Dille's ordeal began when he collapsed suddenly one morning last month. A coworker initiated CPR immediately. The Phoenix Fire Department Station 21 crew soon arrived, diagnosing ventricular fibrillation, a condition where the heart fails to pump blood effectively. They performed CPR, administered defibrillations and cardioversions, resuscitating him multiple times before transporting him to Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix.

At the hospital, Dr. Todd Clever and his team continued lifesaving efforts for two hours. After several resuscitations, Dille underwent a procedure in the cardiac catheterization lab where an Impella device was implanted to support his heart. He survived another resuscitation post-procedure and was moved to intensive care.

Dr. Clever remarked on Dille's resilience: "It’s truly incredible how much he fought to stay alive that day." The combined efforts of his coworker, the fire department team, and hospital staff were pivotal in Dille's survival.

Dille is using his experience during American Heart Month to highlight the importance of learning CPR as it can be crucial in life-threatening situations.

Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix has been serving Arizona since 1911 as part of Banner Health's network. It is recognized for its specialties including heart care and emergency services.