A stranger delivered CPR for 20 minutes to a Montreal man. His family wants to meet them
A heartwarming story out of Montreal has captured the attention of many as a family searches for the Good Samaritan who saved 87-year-old Sabato Borrelli’s life after he collapsed and went into cardiac arrest while out on his daily walk in the Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough. Doctors informed the family that a stranger performed CPR on Borrelli for approximately 20 minutes before paramedics arrived and took over the life-saving measures.
Sabato’s daughter, Gloria Borelli, is determined to find the person who gave her more time with her father. She believes that her father was near Jarry Park when the incident occurred on May 15th but has been unable to confirm the exact location. Gloria expressed her gratitude, stating, “This gentleman, or woman, or child—I don’t know who saved my father. All they wanted was for this person to have a chance, and he was given that chance.” Borrelli celebrated his 87th birthday while recovering in the hospital over the weekend.
For Lucy Orfeo, Sabato’s awakening at the hospital held a special significance. Lucy tragically lost her daughter, Martina Borrelli, nearly three years ago at just 20 years old. Martina suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage and went into cardiac arrest despite being in an ambulance at the time, eventually passing away. The actions of the Good Samaritan who saved Sabato feel like a tribute to Martina, known for her kindness. Lucy shared, “If you’re kind, you can change the world. That was her thing, so it’s kind of like what’s fueling me. Our family was given a second chance.”
Emergency physician Dr. François de Champlain emphasized the importance of acting swiftly in cases of cardiac arrest. He highlighted that every minute following a cardiac arrest decreases the chances of survival by 10%, with the average ambulance arrival time in Quebec being 13 minutes. Dr. de Champlain stressed the need for bystanders to perform chest compressions immediately, as it significantly increases the chances of survival before medical professionals arrive.
To aid in locating defibrillators and receiving guidance on CPR maneuvers, Dr. de Champlain recommended using the AED – Quebec app developed by the Jacques de Champlain Foundation. The foundation has been advocating for the mandatory registration of defibrillators in Quebec to streamline emergency response efforts.
As Sabato continues to make progress in the hospital, Gloria describes him as an active man who enjoys tending to his garden, making wine, and maintaining bocce ball courts during the summer. The family remains grateful for the Good Samaritan’s actions and is eager to express their appreciation in person. The heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the impact of kindness and quick thinking in saving lives.
