PHX Reporter

Colin Anderson, a 48-year-old resident of Casper, Wyoming, owes his life to the swift actions of bystanders and a Banner Health cardiac surgery physician assistant. Anderson experienced a full cardiac arrest on December 28 while skiing at Hogadon on Casper Mountain. The American Heart Association notes that out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates hover around 10%.

Dr. Henry Gottsch, a local urologist, was among those who quickly recognized the emergency and began CPR. Jenny Burke, a cardiothoracic surgery physician assistant volunteering with the Casper Mountain Ski Patrol, used an automatic external defibrillator to deliver two shocks that revived Anderson.

Transporting Anderson up the mountain for hospital transfer posed challenges due to rugged terrain. However, ski patrol managed to get him to the summit where he was airlifted to Banner Wyoming Medical Center.

Anderson has spent most of his adult life in Florida but recently relocated to Casper after traveling across the country in his RV with his dog Kira. He had been skiing extensively before collapsing after his first run on new skis.

"I know I was probably pushing myself pretty hard on the new skis,” said Anderson.

After waking briefly during transport, he informed emergency workers about his dog in his truck before undergoing bypass surgery on January 2. Dr. Robert Phillips and Jenny Burke performed the procedure and have continued follow-up care.

Burke moved from Washington state in 2022 and started volunteering with the ski patrol this season. "I drank the Kool-Aid," she said. "I love Wyoming."

She emphasized heart disease's reputation as a "silent killer" due to its often symptomless progression until critical events occur. Anderson admitted neglecting regular check-ups but now acknowledges their importance.

"I really feel like I got a second chance at life,” he stated.

Nancy Mitchell, Anderson’s mother from Arizona, expressed gratitude for her son's care team: “Thank you to the numerous nurses, PTs and OTs who encouraged Colin and greatly enhanced his recovery.” She specifically thanked Jenny Burke for her continuous support throughout Anderson's ordeal.

Two months post-incident, Anderson continues cardiac rehabilitation thrice weekly with optimistic recovery prospects from providers. He looks forward to returning to skiing once medically cleared.

Banner Wyoming Medical Center is part of Banner Health and stands as Wyoming's largest hospital offering comprehensive services including trauma care and heart treatment across two campuses in Casper.