On New Year’s Eve, Neil Mitchell was taking down Christmas decorations when he felt it: chest pressure, sweating and trembling.

At first, he brushed off the symptoms and did not want to go to the hospital, convinced he could drive himself if needed. Thankfully, someone called 911.

An advanced EMT and paramedic with the Nashville Fire Department’s Madison Station arrived quickly. During transport to TriStar Skyline Medical Center, Neil suffered a severe STEMI heart attack and went into cardiac arrest multiple times, flatlining in the ambulance.

Because of the crew’s rapid response and advanced pre-hospital care, Neil arrived at TriStar Skyline alive and was taken directly to the cardiac catheterization lab. Physicians placed two stents to restore blood flow. During his recovery, he required a procedure for a pulmonary embolism and later underwent placement of two additional stents at TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

Today, Neil continues his recovery through cardiac rehabilitation at TriStar Skyline, grateful for the coordinated care that saved his life.

Recently, TriStar Skyline hosted a special reunion to honor the Nashville Fire Department Madison Station crew. Neil reunited with the first responders who helped save him, bringing homemade cookies, a handwritten thank-you card, and heartfelt gratitude. TriStar Skyline presented each crew member with a certificate, challenge coin, and t-shirt in appreciation for their lifesaving care.

“It’s not often we get opportunities like this,” Neil shared. “I’m grateful for their sacrifice and for everyone who cared for me. They got me there.”

For EMS professionals, patient outcomes are not always known after care is transferred. The reunion offered a rare, full-circle moment — and a powerful reminder that actions taken in critical minutes can mean everything.

During American Heart Month, Neil's message to the community is simple: Don’t wait. Call 911.

Heart attack symptoms can include:

• Chest discomfort
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body
• Shortness of breath
• Breaking out in a cold sweat
• Nausea
• Lightheadedness

Neil’s story is a powerful reminder that minutes matter. Listening to your body, acting quickly, and trusting trained emergency responders can save a life — possibly your own.

If you or someone you love experiences symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

To learn more about cardiovascular services at TriStar Skyline, visit their website.

(Cover Photo: Neil with Nashville Fire leadership and the crew, along with representatives from TriStar Skyline and TriStar Health.)