What began as a routine training run for the Tokyo Marathon quickly became a life-threatening emergency for Robin Goleco.
He went into cardiac arrest, prompting a rapid response from Redondo Beach Fire Department first responders. They began resuscitation on scene and transported him to Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. There, care teams in the emergency department and cardiac catheterization lab quickly identified and treated a blocked artery.
Months later, Goleco returned, this time to express his gratitude.
During a special ceremony at Redondo Beach Fire Department Station 1, he reunited with the first responders and Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance caregivers who cared for him during those critical moments. The reunion marked a full-circle moment for Goleco and the teams who helped save his life. Surrounded by his family and care teams, he was honored as a “Heart Warrior,” an award presented by the Redondo Beach Fire Department to recognize cardiac arrest survivors and the lifesaving efforts that make their recovery possible.
His experience also reflects a meaningful connection formed during his care. Andrew Louie, M.D., an emergency physician at Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance who treated Goleco, learned they had both been training for the Tokyo Marathon. When Goleco was unable to participate during his recovery, Dr. Louie completed the race in his honor.
Today, Goleco is doing well. His experience reflects the power of immediate action and seamless collaboration across emergency response and hospital teams.
From left to right: Captain Curt Mahoney (paramedic, Redondo Beach Fire Department), Adrian Reye (paramedic, Redondo Beach Fire Department), Josh Corrao (paramedic, Redondo Beach Fire Department), Nikolai Lucido, RN (acute care specialist, Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance), Tricia Fonseca, RN (acute care specialist, Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance), Ryan Stout (paramedic, Redondo Beach Fire Department), Robin Goleco (Heart Warrior), Leslie Weisbrook (bystander CPR), Andrew Louie, M.D. (emergency physician, Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance)
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