Marathon Runner Thanks Crews for Saving His Life During Cardiac Arrest

CONROE, TX -- Phil Reynolds is no stranger to the gym. He has been working out for years, intermittently preparing for the various marathons he has participated in over the years. However, on January 3rd of this year, things took a turn as he prepared for the New York City Marathon. Mr. Reynolds was running on the treadmill at the community gym in Bentwater, when he collapsed. He was in cardiac arrest. A bystander ran to retrieve an AED as Mr. Reynold’s Apple Watch actually initially called 911. As MCHD dispatcher Kristin Gardner talked the bystander through CPR and using the AED, MCHD paramedics and firefighters from Montgomery Fire Department arrived and took over his care. During a Save Reunion this week at MCHD, everyone praised In-Charge Paramedic Bianca Hines for her management of the team.

“When we arrived on scene, I took the firefighters’ report on the actions taken before our arrival, CPR was in progress,” said Bianca Hines, In-Charge Paramedic. “My partner, Sahar, and I started ALS (Advanced Life Support). We established your airway, to get the oxygen you need, and started an IO, which is like an IV – in your bone. There is an algorithm to it – giving medications and giving additional shocks to get your heart restarted. It was such a great feeling when we got you back – your heart was beating again.”

After transporting Mr. Reynolds to the hospital, doctors told him he needed a triple bypass surgery. Since January, he has made a full recovery. He and his wife, Susan, were thrilled to be able to reunite with all of the first responders.

“I know this team, from the 911 call to those of you who were providing my care, saved my life. Thank you,” said Mr. Reynolds. “I am just so grateful.”

MCHD would like to thank all of the first responders involved in Mr. Reynolds’s care:

MCHD Paramedics

Bianca Hines, In-Charge

Sahar Barekzai, Attendant

Ricky Wood, District Chief

MCHD 911 Dispatch Center

Kristin Gardner

Montgomery County Fire Department

Stephen Kitten

Matthew Peevler

Emmett Greene

Tyler Grube

Craig Przyborski

Montgomery County Hospital District’s mission is to care for the indigent and provide EMS services while protecting the interest of taxpayers and ensuring long-term stability through fund development. For more information about the Montgomery County Hospital District, please go to www.mchd-tx.org.