Brian Howard was helping a customer find bags of feed at Hawkinsville Ace Hardware when he suddenly collapsed. What he thought was indigestion turned out to be a heart attack.

"I didn't expect it at all," Howard said, standing near the spot where he fell earlier this month during what started as an ordinary workday.

Howard doesn't remember collapsing, but store manager Morgan Maddox recalls every moment vividly. Security footage shows employees initially frozen in shock before Maddox sprang into action, administering chest compressions despite having no formal CPR training.

"It was very scary because I felt so helpless," Maddox said. "He was just laying there and I didn't know what to do. I'm very thankful I was there, but I hope I never have to experience anything like that again."

Maddox performed CPR until paramedics arrived, buying critical time that likely saved Howard's life. The six-month employee, who considers his coworkers family, credits the quick response for his survival.

"If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be here," Howard said.

This week marked Howard's return to the sales floor, where he's easing back into helping customers find the perfect items — though he admits he's "just a little tired."

The incident prompted immediate change at the hardware store. Maddox and several other employees are now receiving CPR certification to prepare for any future emergencies.

When Howard returned to work, Maddox hugged him, then playfully scolded him. "I told him he better not do that to me ever again," she said.

For now, Howard is taking things day by day, grateful to be back among the team he calls family.