Long Island Teen Thanks Coaches Who Saved His Life After Cardiac Arrest

UPDATE: An emotional reunion unfolded on November 22, 2023, as Francesco Allocca, a high school senior, expressed profound gratitude to the coaches who saved his life during a basketball tryout at Locust Valley High School on Long Island. Just days prior, on November 17, Allocca collapsed due to cardiac arrest, prompting immediate and heroic actions from school staff.

Coaches and personnel at the school swiftly administered CPR and utilized an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) before emergency medical services arrived. “I’m extremely thankful and grateful that you guys were there and acted so quickly,” Allocca stated. “Without you guys, I wouldn’t be here.” His heartfelt words underscored the critical importance of their training in a life-or-death situation.

Francesco’s mother, Pia Allocca, described the harrowing moments following her son’s collapse. “When I heard cardiac arrest, I thought he didn’t make it,” she revealed. After rushing to Glen Cove Hospital, she witnessed what she called a miracle. By the time doctors treated him, Francesco already had his pulse back, thanks to the rapid response of his coaches.

On the eve of Thanksgiving, the school’s leadership honored the coaches for their quick thinking and life-saving actions. Coach Andrew Siegel reflected on the incident, stating, “Thank God for the training; honestly, without the training, I don’t know if this outcome is the same.”

In response to this urgent incident, school officials are taking proactive measures to enhance safety protocols. “We continue consulting to add more AEDs to our elementary school,” said Dr. Kristen Turnow, Superintendent of the Locust Valley Central School District. The district is also upgrading communication tools to ensure instant response capabilities.

As Francesco Allocca continues to recover, he is eager to return to the basketball court. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preparedness and swift action in emergencies, highlighting the profound impact that trained individuals can have in critical situations.

This developing story emphasizes the need for awareness and accessible life-saving tools in schools. As communities reflect on this incident, the focus remains on ensuring that every school is equipped to handle emergencies effectively.

Stay tuned for more updates on this heartwarming yet urgent story as it develops.