Today’s uplifting story comes from Detroit, Michigan.

A family in Michigan is feeling extremely thankful after two high school coaches took quick action and saved the life of their 14-year-old daughter.

Alyssa Atkinson / WXYZ-TV Detroit | Channel 7

On March 12, during a normal track practice at Allen Park High School, freshman Alyssa Atkinson was doing her warm-up laps when she suddenly collapsed. Alyssa had a sudden cardiac arrest without any warning signs.

“I only remember doing two warm-up laps and then our regular exercises in line, but that’s all I recall from that day,” Alyssa remembered.

Her next memory was waking up in the hospital with her family around her.

“I was grateful to be awake, but it was terrifying to know that happened to me,” she said.

Alyssa’s mom, Kelly Dolan, was also surprised.

“She has her sports physical every year for sports in high school and middle school. So, this took us by surprise and we had no idea,” she said.

Luckily, two Allen Park High School track coaches acted quickly and decisively when Alyssa became unresponsive. They immediately started CPR and used an AED (automated external defibrillator) to restart her heart.

“They got her heart rhythm back before emergency crews got there. Those crucial seconds changed my life, my daughter’s life, and saved her life,” Dolan said.

Allen Park High School’s Athletic Director, James Victor, emphasized the importance of emergency readiness at the school.

“Knowing that all the emergency action plans, all the drills that our athletic trainer and I work on helped potentially save a life—it means a lot,” he said.

Although the exact cause of Alyssa’s cardiac arrest is unknown, her recovery highlights the importance of CPR training, quick action, and having the right equipment available.

Right now, Alyssa and her family are simply grateful for the coaches who acted without hesitation during the crisis.

“How do you thank someone who saved your daughter’s life?” Dolan wondered.