SPOKANE, Wash. —During a recent comedy show at the Spokane Comedy Club, a man collapsed—turning a night of laughter into a life-or-death emergency. What happened next was a powerful example of how CPR, performed by everyday people, can save lives.
Bystanders called for help, began chest compressions, and requested an automated external defibrillator (AED). Their quick response highlights the critical role CPR plays in survival and recovery.
What bystanders did right
Drew Lynch performs at the Spokane Comedy Club.
Source: YouTube
So, what exactly did those bystanders do that made such a difference?
“They started CPR right away,” said Emily Fleury, Director of Community Wellness and Health Training at Providence. “Every minute counts."
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a person’s chance of survival drops by 10% for every minute without CPR.
American Medical Response (AMR) reports in Spokane the average emergency medical response time is between seven and eight minutes—making bystander action absolutely critical.
“Bystander CPR is the first link in the chain of survival,” Fleury added. “You’re giving someone the best chance at survival.”
Why CPR matters
This incident is a powerful reminder of why CPR training matters—here’s what everyone should know.
CPR keeps blood flowing when the heart stops, buying time until medical help arrives.
“It’s the difference between life and death—and between full recovery and permanent neurological damage,” Fleury said.
According to the AHA:
- If CPR is performed immediately, it can double or triple the chance of survival.
- 73.4% of cardiac arrests occur in homes or residences.
- If an AED is used within the first minute, 9 out of 10 people survive.
“An appropriate shock from an AED is often the best chance for survival outside of a hospital,” Fleury added.
What to do in a cardiac emergency
If you witness a cardiac emergency, here are the basic steps:
- Call for help and locate an AED.
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest—ideally along the nipple line.
- If trained and willing, provide rescue breaths. But chest compressions alone are highly effective for most bystanders.
Apps like PulsePoint can help locate nearby AEDs in public spaces, increasing the chances of survival.
Initiatives like the Adams Project, which places AEDs in schools, are part of a broader effort to ensure lifesaving tools are available where they’re needed most.
Providence works closely with emergency medical service providers and community organizations to strengthen the chain of survival—from the moment an emergency occurs to advanced care.
Take action today
Despite its importance, many people hesitate to perform CPR because they fear doing it wrong.
“The truth is, taking action is what matters most,” Fleury said. “Training helps build confidence, and our classes give people the hands-on experience they need to feel prepared.”
Providence is committed to empowering the community with life-saving skills.
Through Health Training of Eastern Washington, Providence offers CPR and AED classes for all skill levels—from beginners to healthcare professionals. Classes include realistic simulations using mannequins and AED devices, so participants know exactly what to do in a real emergency.
- Classes are offered weekly
- Certification lasts two years
- Costs range from $25–$70
“Get trained now—the life you save could be someone you love,” Fleury urged. “Most cardiac arrests happen at home. Knowing what to do can make all the difference.”
Whether you're a parent, coworker, or friend, CPR training gives you the power to save a life. Providence is here to help you take that first step.
To learn more or register for a class, visit Providence Health Training of Eastern Washington.
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