Appointments at Jackson Health System

Jackson Health System offers world-class healthcare with convenient locations across South Florida, including Miami-Dade County and Plantation.

Request Appointment

Emily in Paris Assistant Director’s Sudden Death Highlights the Importance of Recognizing Cardiac Arrest and How You Can Save a Life

Close-up of a man's hands holding his chest as if he were about to have a heart attack

Health & Wellness

The sudden passing of Emily in Paris assistant director Diego Borella has drawn worldwide attention to cardiac arrest, a condition that can strike without warning and requires immediate action. While tragic, moments like these remind us of the importance of awareness, preparedness, and education.

Know the Warning Signs

Cardiac arrest is often confused with a heart attack, but they’re not the same. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, while cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating. Both are major emergencies.

Warning signs may include:

  • Sudden loss of responsiveness
  • Abnormal breathing
  • Chest discomfort or pressure (for heart attack)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness, nausea, or cold sweats

What To Do in an Emergency

When cardiac arrest happens, every second matters. Quick action can mean the difference between life and death. Make sure to:

  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Begin CPR right away if the person is unresponsive or not breathing normally.
  • Place the heel of your hand on the center of the chest, put your other hand on top, and push hard and fast at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
  • If trained, provide two rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.
  • Use an automated external defibrillator (AED), if one is available. Follow the device’s voice prompts until emergency responders arrive.

Jackson Medical Group cardiologist Dr. Juan Zambrano emphasizes the importance of community preparedness.

“Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond with CPR and an AED can truly save a life,” Dr. Zambrano said. “It’s also very important to immediately call for help or dial 911. The earlier chest compressions begin, the higher the chances of survival.”

Take the Next Step

Jackson Health System encourages everyone in our community to learn CPR and become familiar with AEDs. Training takes only a few hours and can prepare you to act confidently in an emergency.

Your knowledge could one day save the life of a loved one, a colleague, or even a stranger.