A game of pickleball turned into a life-or-death emergency at the Bell Road YMCA, and an off-duty Montgomery firefighter stepped in.
Montgomery Fire/Rescue is recognizing Lt. Demetrius Gilmore for helping save a man’s life while off duty at the YMCA, the department said.
On June 11, Gilmore was playing pickleball when he noticed a disturbance on a nearby court. When he went to investigate, he found a man collapsed on the gym floor with no pulse and showing signs of cardiac arrest.
Gilmore began providing care until additional help arrived, helping stabilize the patient during the medical emergency. He directed YMCA staff to call 911 and retrieve an AED while he started CPR. He also coordinated bystanders to assist with the rescue effort.
When the AED arrived, Gilmore applied the pads and delivered a shock as directed by the device. After another round of CPR, the man regained a pulse and began breathing on his own.
Montgomery Fire/Rescue crews arrived shortly afterward and continued advanced medical care. Before the patient was transported to Baptist Medical Center South, he had regained consciousness and was alert and responsive.
“Lieutenant Gilmore’s actions reflect the values of Montgomery Fire/Rescue and demonstrate the professionalism, dedication, and commitment we expect from our firefighters,” Fire Captain C.L. Wright said. “His calm response and quick decision-making made a real difference in this situation.”
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