From Near-Death to New Life: One Survivor’s Powerful Message Before the Syracuse Heart Walk

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but one survivor is proving that a second chance is possible—and worth fighting for. Ahead of the Syracuse Heart Walk, a local man shares his harrowing experience and life-saving advice.

A Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything

John Reynolds, a 54-year-old Syracuse father of two, never saw it coming. After feeling a sudden, crushing pain in his chest while mowing his lawn, he collapsed—only to wake up in the hospital after suffering a massive heart attack.

"I thought I was invincible," Reynolds admits. "But that day, reality hit me like a freight train. Without quick medical intervention, I wouldn’t be here today." Doctors later confirmed a 95% blockage in his left anterior descending artery, a condition often called the "widow-maker."

How CPR and Quick Action Saved His Life

Reynolds credits his survival to three critical factors:

• Immediate CPR from his neighbor, a retired nurse
• Swift EMS response (under 8 minutes)
• Emergency stent placement at Upstate University Hospital

Now, he’s using his story to inspire others at this year’s Syracuse Heart Walk, organized by the American Heart Association (AHA). The event raises funds for research, CPR training, and public awareness.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Heart

Reynolds and AHA experts emphasize these proactive steps:

1. Know the warning signs (chest discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea)
2. Learn hands-only CPR—it doubles survival rates
3. Get regular cholesterol and blood pressure checks
4. Advocate for AED access in workplaces and schools

What Do You Think?

• Should CPR training be mandatory for high school graduation?
• Why do many people ignore early heart attack symptoms despite knowing the risks?
• Does the U.S. healthcare system do enough to prevent heart disease, or just treat it?
• Would you feel confident performing CPR in an emergency?

The Syracuse Heart Walk kicks off at 9 AM on Saturday at Onondaga Lake Park. Registration is open at heart.org/syracusewalk.