Retired EMT’s Heroic Act: A routine day at a pickleball tournament turned into a life-saving moment when Robyne Gold, a retired EMT, sprang into action to revive a player who collapsed at the Baytown Community Center. Using CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED), she successfully restored his pulse before emergency responders arrived.
Quick Response Saves a Life
Gold, a retired process technician from ExxonMobil and a former EMT with 25 years of experience, was at the tournament when a fellow player, Randy, suddenly collapsed. He was unresponsive, not breathing, and had no pulse. Without hesitation, Gold recruited a bystander to assist and began performing CPR. She then used an AED to deliver a shock that restarted Randy’s heart.
“This was the third time I’ve performed CPR and only the second time it was successful,” Gold said. “The odds of bringing someone back with CPR alone are low. Having the AED made all the difference.”
Experience and Training Make a Difference
Gold had been in similar situations before. Years ago, she performed CPR on a contractor and managed to keep his pulse going until he reached the ambulance. Another time, she attempted to revive a colleague at work, but he did not survive.
“Because of HIPAA laws, we don’t know the outcome, but would like to think he made it. This time, Randy made it and we are all glad,” she said.
In recognition of her heroism, Baytown Sun Publisher Carol Skewes presented Gold with the April “Unsung Hero” award.
News in Brief: Retired EMT’s Heroic Act
Robyne Gold, a retired EMT, saved a pickleball player’s life at the Baytown Community Center using CPR and an AED. The player, Randy, collapsed mid-game and was unresponsive. Gold’s quick actions restored his pulse. She was later honored with the “Unsung Hero” award for her life-saving efforts.
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