by Fort Morgan, CO – A dramatic rescue unfolded at a Fort Morgan school last week when 12-year-old Jordan Palomar collapsed on the playground due to sudden cardiac arrest. Swift intervention from school staff and classmates ensured that Jordan survived the life-threatening incident and was flown to HCA HealthOne Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children at Presbyterian St. Luke’s for treatment.
Doctors implanted a device to regulate his heart rhythm, and Jordan is now recovering at home, just in time to celebrate his 13th birthday alongside his twin brother.
Incident at School
Jordan, an active soccer player and sports fan, had undergone open-heart surgery as an infant but had experienced no major health issues until the collapse.
According to his parents, the call from the school reporting the emergency was one they will never forget. His father recalled:
“I just remember going as fast as I could, just trying to get to him.”
Upon arriving at the scene, school staff administered immediate CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED), which medical experts say was crucial in saving Jordan’s life.
Medical Response
After being transported by helicopter to the hospital, Dr. Ian Milligan and his team implanted a device to help regulate Jordan’s heart rhythm. While the exact cause of the sudden cardiac arrest is still under investigation, doctors emphasized the importance of quick medical intervention.
“We’re still working to understand the exact cause,” said Dr. Milligan, noting that Jordan’s case is similar to that of Damar Hamlin, the Buffalo Bills player who collapsed on the field in 2023.
Both cases highlight the vital importance of emergency plans and life-saving equipment in schools and public areas.
Community Heroes
Several individuals are credited with saving Jordan’s life:
- A school nurse
- A school resource officer, who is also a close family friend
- A student who ran for help
Jordan praised the team, saying,
“They did everything perfectly right at the right time to save my life.”
His parents emphasized how the collaborative effort of trained staff and alert students made the difference between life and death.
Support from Classmates
During his hospital recovery, Jordan was surrounded by support from classmates, who sent handmade cards and letters. His care team also helped him celebrate his 13th birthday in the hospital alongside his twin brother.
“Things could have gone a lot differently,” his mother said. “He might not have been here to celebrate that birthday.”
This community support played an essential role in lifting Jordan’s spirits during his recovery.
Lessons and Awareness
Dr. Milligan stressed that Jordan’s survival underscores the need for preparedness in schools, including:
- Trained staff in CPR and AED use
- Accessible emergency equipment
- Emergency response plans tailored to children’s safety
“I think awareness and having a plan in place, having the right people and training and devices in the right places is the best thing we can do for our children,” said Dr. Milligan.
Jordan Palomar’s story is a reminder of the importance of quick thinking, life-saving training, and community support. Share your thoughts on how schools can prepare for emergencies and ensure children’s safety in the comments below.
