Woman saves Walmart employee with CPR, recognized by first responders

Quick thinking and decades-old CPR training saved a life in the Walmart aisle in Colerain Township.

In May, an employee collapsed, and it was a stranger who jumped in and performed life-saving measures until first responders arrived.

Back in the spring, LeAnn Sullivan of Fairfield went into the Walmart store on a whim to kill time.

“I definitely think something out there made us be there at that time and place,” Sullivan said.

While she was browsing through the women’s clothing section, she heard a loud commotion.

“I saw a bunch of people standing there, and I saw a guy lying on the ground,” Sullivan said.

Within a heartbeat, Sullivan sprang into action.

“I ran over to him to check to see if he was breathing, and he wasn't, so I just started doing CPR on him,” Sullivan said.

According to Sullivan, she learned CPR 20 years ago and, since then, has continued to keep up to date on training.

“Never thinking I would ever have to use it,” Sullivan said.

When she had to, Sullivan did not hesitate to help the employee.

Aware that every minute matters, her mind was locked in and focused on doing all she could for a total stranger.

“One of the Walmart employees brought over the AEDs, I got it applied to him, and I had to shock him a couple of times,” Sullivan said. “The third time I shocked him, the EMTs had arrived.”

Within minutes of the man collapsing, members of the Colerain Township Fire Department arrived at the store.

First responders took over his care. They rushed him into the ambulance, continuing his CPR.

According to the township, by the time they arrived at Mercy West Hospital, the worker was awake and talking.

On Monday, Mercy Health honored Sullivan and the Colerain first responders whose quick actions saved the man’s life.

“Statistically speaking, someone loses a 10% chance of survival for each minute that goes by where there's no intervention,” Colerain Township Fire Department Assistant Chief Will Mueller said. “For LeAnn to be able to jump in and initiate the training that she received 20 years ago is remarkable.”

Mercy Health gave Lifesaver Awards to Sullivan and five firefighters who helped the Walmart employee. They also received Challenge Coins courtesy of the hospital network.

The Walmart employee is doing well and is back at work. Sullivan said she reunited with him.