Illini Swimmer Charli Wike Performs Life-Saving CPR

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – On Saturday night, April 30, Illinois sophomore Charli Wike put her pre-nursing abilities into action after witnessing a University of Illinois alumnus collapse due to sudden cardiac arrest. The alumus, an 80-year-old male, was attending a get together at the KAM’S establishment on campus following a fraternity alumni event.

According to statements, Wike jumped into action after witnessing the man collapse and found that he had no pulse and instantly began to perform CPR. Wike was assisted with rescue breathing by another Illinois alumnae. The pair was the joined by an ER doctor and provided CPR for several minutes until the alumnus regained consciousness.

According to the Champaign Police Department, the out of hospital survival rate for cardiac arrest is reported to be as low at 6%. Millions of Americans are trained in CPR annually, but most will never use it.

“To have these individuals act with the speed and decisiveness they did clearly made the difference and saved this man’s life,” shared a Champaign Police Department representative.

The man was transported to Carle Emergency Department and eventually made a full recovery thanks to Wike and company’s heroic actions.

Wike will receive the “Life Saving Award” from the UIPD in an upcoming ceremony.

Swimming news courtesy of Illinois Swimming & Diving.

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Lori
8 years ago

Way to go, Charli!!!

GO GIRL
8 years ago

What an awesome female athlete!!

About Lauren Neidigh

Lauren Neidigh

Lauren Neidigh is a former NCAA swimmer at the University of Arizona (2013-2015) and the University of Florida (2011-2013). While her college swimming career left a bit to be desired, her Snapchat chin selfies and hot takes on Twitter do not disappoint. She's also a high school graduate of The …

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