Josh Coffey, the Director of the Critical Care Unit and Intermediate Care Unit at Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC), played a crucial role in saving a man's life during the Allianz Marathon in Richmond, Virginia. The incident occurred on November 16 when Coffey, who was participating in the marathon, noticed a man in his seventies collapse from cardiac arrest.
"I feel like I was just in the right place, at the right time, to do the right thing, for the right person," Coffey stated.
Coffey had been preparing for this marathon for six months. However, due to a delay at the start line, he began running later than planned. This timing proved fortunate as it positioned him to respond promptly when he saw fellow runners parting around the collapsed man. Recognizing that the man had no pulse, Coffey immediately initiated CPR with assistance from two other runners. After approximately ten minutes, an automated external defibrillator (AED) was located and used by Coffey to restart the man's heart successfully.
Following this life-saving intervention, paramedics arrived and transported the man to a hospital where he is currently recovering despite some complications. Coffey and his fellow responders resumed their race after a 30-minute delay and completed it with Coffey finishing at 5:17:50.
Reflecting on his career journey, Coffey's association with CVMC began during his nursing studies at Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute. He has since advanced through various roles at CVMC thanks to its tuition reimbursement program which enabled him to obtain further degrees from Appalachian State University and UNC-Wilmington.
"Somebody saw something in me that I have trouble seeing in myself," said Coffey about his progression within CVMC where he has served as Director of CCU & IMCU for 18 months. He emphasized his appreciation for CVMC's culture of prioritizing patient care while valuing employees' contributions.
CVMC expressed pride in employing nurses like Josh Coffey who demonstrate commitment both professionally and personally. More information about CVMC's services can be found on their website.
Alerts Sign-up