South Dakota Mines coach, doctoral student share heart recovery journeys

South Dakota Mines Assistant Volleyball Coach Sarah Tucker and doctoral student Chandler Brooks know how quickly life can change.

Both experienced serious cardiac emergencies last year that forced them to rethink their health, slow down and appreciate the moments that matter most.

The two were recently recognized at the American Heart Association Heart Walk after being nominated by Monument Health Cardiac Rehab for their recovery journeys and lifestyle changes.

Sarah Tucker: Finding confidence through change

Last summer, Tucker was preparing for another high school volleyball season. The then-42-year-old coach was constantly on the go, but she began experiencing occasional chest pain.

On Sept. 10, 2025, the pain did not go away.

Doctors discovered a small tear in an artery that was restricting blood flow. Tucker was diagnosed with spontaneous coronary artery dissection, or SCAD.

The experience prompted her to make several changes. She stepped down from her head coaching position, gave up her longtime Mountain Dew habit and began focusing more on reducing sodium, eating heart-healthy foods, exercising and managing stress.

She stayed involved in volleyball, beginning her first season as an assistant coach for the South Dakota Mines Hardrockers this fall.

At first, Tucker was nervous about how her heart would handle coaching. Now, she said she has learned to listen to her body, take breaks when needed and use breathing techniques she learned in cardiac rehabilitation.

“I think being able to share my experience and help inform others is important,” Tucker said.

Chandler Brooks: Slowing down for what matters

For Brooks, the cardiac emergency happened while running the 2025 Mickelson Trail Half Marathon.

After weeks of training, Brooks started the race but remembers little of what happened afterward. He finished the 13.1-mile race, walked to the first aid tent and collapsed.

He was given CPR before being taken to Deadwood Hospital and later flown to Monument Health in Rapid City.

Doctors found a blockage and diagnosed Brooks with a spontaneous coronary artery dissection involving the left anterior descending artery, commonly known as an LAD SCAD.

After recovering, Brooks returned to the hospital four weeks later — this time for the birth of his son, Oliver.

The experience changed how he approaches his health. He now focuses on eating well, warming up before exercise, keeping up with medical appointments and, perhaps most importantly, slowing down.

Brooks also changed careers. His previous work in wildlife management often took him into remote areas, which became a concern after his cardiac emergency.

He is now pursuing a doctorate in environmental ecology. His research includes studying PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in local deer populations and working with tribes along the Kootenai River on environmental conditions affecting native fish.

He plans to earn his doctorate by 2028.

For Brooks, the goal is to make more time for his family, watch his son grow up and appreciate everyday moments.

For both Tucker and Brooks, the Heart Walk recognition is a reminder of how far they have come — and of the importance of the everyday choices they continue to make for their health and their families.