John Mangrum, fortunately, is alive and breathing thanks to the heroics of Pullen Aquatics Center lifeguards in Raleigh. In what could have been his final swim, Mangrum experienced full cardiac arrest, and the quick actions of the team on duty became the difference between life and death. As Mangrum told the city's website, "They really are heroes," Mangrum added, "They are the only reason I’m still here," he added.
The critical incident unfolded while Mangrum, a competitive swimmer and former City employee, was seemingly engaged in a routine morning swim. Lifeguard Mark Hogue's vigilance was the initial spark to a chain of lifesaving actions. He saw that Mangrum was in distress, describing the moment as "surreal." “He was moaning and doubled over. So, I blew the whistle and ran over there," said Houge. "It was amazing how we all came together, and our training just kicked in,” Hogue detailed in the aforementioned interview. Steven Harper, who served 20 years in the Navy and now dedicates himself to lifeguarding, leaped into the water to retrieve Mangrum, firmly believing his job to be not just a duty, but a purpose.
The collective expertise and preparedness of the aquatics staff shone brightly as Assistant Manager Caroline Truelove commenced CPR and, along with her team, used an automatic external defibrillator (AED) to restart Mangrum's heart, not once, but twice. Reflecting on the pressure-cooked moments, Truelove underscored the vital nature of their training. "We train weekly, monthly, and annually. It’s so important," she communicated to the city's publication. According to her, adrenaline fused with their synchronized efforts, underscoring a well-rehearsed team handling a life-or-death situation with aplomb.
After his hospital release, Mangrum made a poignant visit back to Pullen Aquatics Center with an emblem of his gratitude: a plaque for the lifesavers who acted decisively when every second counted. As Mangrum aptly handed over his gift, the plaque read, "This was truly a life-changing experience. I am forever grateful that your team was in place at just the right time."
