Bennett’s heart: A 15-year-old survives sudden cardiac arrest at school

At just eight years old, Bennett Hart was diagnosed with two rare genetic mutations affecting his heart. This genetic condition caused Bennet’s heart to stop three times between the ages of 8 and 15. Despite being one of only two known cases worldwide, Bennett’s story is not just about a medical anomaly; it’s a testament to resilience, the power of immediate medical response, and the unyielding spirit of a determined student athlete.

As a dedicated baseball player, Bennett and his father spent hours practicing in their backyard. During his freshman year of high school, while running the school’s stadium stairs during baseball practice, Bennet collapsed and suffered a cardiac arrest – his third since he was eight years old.

He was pulseless.

The athletic trainers immediately began performing CPR while the onsite Automated External Defibrillator (AED) was brought to the field. Once the AED pads were placed on Bennett and the device indicated the need to shock, he initially converted and regained a normal pulse. Only to then quickly moved back into a lethal rhythm.

Just as EMTs were arriving on scene, the AED indicated the need to deliver a second shock. Fortunately, Bennett converted for a second time and achieved Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) and held a steady pulse before being rushed to the hospital.

The Hart family credits the quick action of his coaches and trainers as well as the availability of an AED for saving Bennett’s life and cognitive function.

After making a full recovery, doctors have told Bennett he must maintain a heart rate under 130bpm or risk another life-threatening emergency. This meant giving up his dream of playing baseball and shifting his focus to bowling, a sport less strenuous on his heart but no less competitive. Bennett made the varsity bowling team as a freshman, a significant achievement showcasing his adaptability and determination.

While Bennett and his family strive to live as normal a life as possible, Bennett now brings an AED with him everywhere he goes.

The Harts' experience has driven their community to secure more AEDs, ensuring that what happened to Bennett could be a lifesaving turning point for others. As Bennett continues to thrive and adapt, he and his family focus not on the limitations set by his condition but on the possibilities that life holds.