Goshen factory workers jump into action to save coworker’s life with CPR, AED

GOSHEN, Ind. (WNDU) - CPR training and the quick operation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death. It is a reality that recently hit home for employees at a local manufacturing facility.

Earlier this summer, what began as a normal shift at the Keystone RV plant in Goshen quickly turned into a life-or-death emergency when long-time employee Pat Moran suffered a serious cardiac emergency on the clock.

“I just went out. It scares me that it happened that easy and that quick,” Moran said.

Moran collapsed from cardiac arrest, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States.

“Only about 10% survive,” said Dr. Blair MacPhail, an interventional cardiologist at Goshen Health. “Unless you start CPR right away, and you have an AED available. It triples the outcome from saving someone’s life.”

Fortunately for Moran, his colleagues didn’t hesitate. After Michelle Wolfe found him, she and a group of coworkers immediately jumped into action, administering CPR and delivering crucial shocks with an on-site AED until emergency personnel could arrive.

Navigating large, busy industrial spaces can often present a challenge for arriving first responders, making those initial minutes of coworker intervention even more vital.

“Usually, when we go into an industrial site, everything looks the same and it is hard to pinpoint a certain area,” explained Goshen Police Patrolman Luis Lopez.

According to health officials, prepared workplaces like Keystone RV are rare. It is uncommon for workplace staff to be thoroughly trained in CPR steps, and fewer than one in five people nationwide know how to operate an AED.

But at Keystone RV, management and staff recently gathered to recognize the bravery of the employees who stepped up. For Moran, having a trained and courageous team on his shift is the reason he is here today.

“Thank you for not only having the training, but stepping up,” Moran said, reflecting on his coworkers’ lifesaving actions. “I am glad those people were working that day, because who knows how that would’ve turned out if it was different people.”

Today, Moran’s recovery is being called nothing short of a miracle.

“I looked at him today, and it doesn’t even seem like he went through anything,” Lopez said. “He looks happy and healthy, and it’s so awesome to see that.”

Local officials said this incident highlights the power of preparedness. To save the precious seconds that can ultimately save a coworker, friend, or loved one, officials encourage residents to seek CPR and AED certification.

Classes and certification resources can be found directly through the American Heart Association.

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