Spotting Cardiac Distress Signs: A Lifesaving Breakthrough at FRCE

An ordinary day at Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) turned into a life-threatening emergency when 28-year-old Gannon Plouff experienced severe cardiac distress. Fortunately, his supervisor’s rapid response likely saved his life.

On June 18, Plouff, a hazardous waste disposer, began experiencing chest pains, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath. This was not his first encounter with heart issues; he has a history of cardiac conditions. “I woke up that morning feeling fine, but my heartbeat became irregular. It had happened before, so I thought it would normalize,” Plouff recalled.

However, a few hours into his shift, Plouff’s symptoms escalated. “While working, my heart started fluttering, and the rhythm became very irregular. I knew something was wrong,” he said. His supervisor, Richard Johnston, immediately recognized the urgency.

“When Plouff mentioned chest tightness, I told him to come back to the office immediately,” said Johnston. “I called 9-1-1, grabbed the AED (automated external defibrillator), and tried to keep him calm. By the time paramedics arrived, Plouff was experiencing atrial fibrillation and needed to be shocked.”

Paramedics arrived quickly and started treating Plouff, whose heart rate had soared to about 250 beats per minute. “They put me in the ambulance and tried to slow my heart rate with medication, but it didn’t work. They had to shock me to reduce my heart rate,” Plouff explained. “I was awake for all of it and thought I might be dying. All I could think about was my wife and kids.”

Plouff credits his supervisor’s actions for saving his life. “I want to thank my boss for acting so fast. He knew my heart history and responded accordingly,” said Plouff. Now recovering in Texas with his family, Plouff advises coworkers to listen to their bodies and support each other. “If something feels off, seek help. I’m grateful to be alive for my kids.’

Awards followed Johnston’s quick actions. He received the FRCE Aviation Safety Professional of the Quarter award. “The health and safety of our employees is our number one priority,” said FRCE Executive Officer Randy Berti. “Johnston’s quick thinking and response likely saved a life. Our emergency training programs proved their worth.”

FRCE emphasizes lifesaving skills among its workforce, offering training in first aid, CPR, and AED usage. Since 2023, the Safety and Occupational Health Division has installed 85 new AEDs across multiple FRCE locations, further enhancing emergency preparedness.

Recognizing cardiac distress symptoms is crucial. According to The American Heart Association, symptoms include chest pressure or pain, shortness of breath, discomfort in other upper body areas, cold sweats, and nausea. If you experience these symptoms, contact emergency services immediately.

Johnston underscores the importance of knowing your team. “Building a bond with my team allows them to trust me in emergency situations. Health events are spontaneous, so we need to stay vigilant. We’re a family working toward the same goal,” he said.