Life Saved at Hockey Heroes

The 12th Annual NAPA Hockey Heroes Weekend is one we won't soon forget. Not only did our dedicated participants help us achieve a banner fundraising year—raising an incredible $1.15 million and bringing the 12-year total to over $9.25 million—but it also became a testament to the life-saving power of teamwork and preparedness.

This unforgettable weekend took a dramatic turn when Mike Oulton and his teammates were in the dressing room following a game, and Mike suddenly collapsed. The team immediately yelled for help, and foundation CEO Kurtis Sisk overheard their cries.

Kurtis quickly identified that Mike was in cardiac arrest. He asked a colleague, Annie Smith, to call 911 before running to retrieve the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) from the lobby.

Meanwhile, Carole Gautreau and Isabelle Babineau, both off-duty paramedics participating in the tournament, overheard the desperate shouts and rushed to the dressing room.

Carole and Isabelle placed the AED pads on Mike’s chest and immediately started CPR. Their quick actions, combined with the support of everyone involved, saved Mike’s life.

"I am incredibly grateful to everyone who helped save my life," said Mike. "From the moment I collapsed, every second mattered. I can't thank my teammates, Kurtis, and the paramedics enough. Their actions truly made the difference."

Mike’s experience underscores the critical importance of ensuring life-saving devices like AEDs are accessible to communities across New Brunswick.