Athletic Training Student Saves Life... Twice!

Jackson Hoovler, a graduate student in Alvernia University’s Master of Science in Athletic Training program, used his life-saving skills to revive a man who collapsed after a football game at Twin Valley High School on August 30.

Hoovler, 21, was talking with a co-worker when a woman ran by, pleading for medical help. He quickly responded, finding the victim unresponsive.

“I put my fingers on his carotid artery to check for a pulse and there was nothing. He was blue in the face and wasn’t breathing. I immediately started CPR.”

After performing three cycles of chest compressions and breaths, the man briefly regained consciousness before collapsing again with no pulse.

Hoovler resumed CPR for two additional cycles, fighting exhaustion.

“My only thought was, ‘I’m going to save this gentleman’s life.’”

Fortunately, a registered nurse arrived to assist and continued compressions, and EMS eventually used a defibrillator to stabilize the man.

Hoovler, a former high school quarterback and current member of Alvernia’s golf team, credited the Athletic Training program for preparing him.

“I had a general idea of how to administer CPR before, but I became certified through the program.”

Thomas Franek, Ph.D., LAT, ATC, Director of the MSAT program, praised Hoovler's actions:

“Jackson is a strong academic student with excellent clinical skills. More importantly, he is a compassionate person who cares deeply for others.”

Thanks to Hoovler’s quick response, the 67-year-old man survived and remains under medical care for further evaluation.

Check out the full story here!