Surviving a Sudden Heart Attack:
Frank and Debbie’s Story

Each year, more than 800,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack. While medical advances have contributed to a decline in death rates from cardiac conditions, hundreds of people who experience a heart attack might not survive it. Frank and Debbie, MedicAlert members since 2018, share an amazing story proving it doesn’t have to be this way.

It all began with a trip to the hardware store—Frank’s favorite hangout. Debbie’s idea of shopping didn’t involve wandering up and down dozens of aisles stocked with an endless supply of power tools and plumbing supplies. So, she decided to let Frank have his fun while she relaxed in the car.

Little did Debbie know the unthinkable would soon interrupt Frank’s favorite pastime.

frank and debbie sitting together on chair

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When the unexpected hits home

Picture Debbie, sitting in the car, without a care in the world and clueless about the unfolding drama inside the hardware store. Sure, she glanced at an ambulance as it whizzed by mere minutes ago, but she never gave it a second thought. You’ve seen one ambulance—you’ve seen them all, right? Debbie remained in relax mode after this, but the ringing from her phone suddenly interrupted her.

After answering “hello,” the person on the other end identified themselves as MedicAlert. For Debbie, this could mean only one thing—her beloved husband was in trouble. Debbie couldn’t believe it. She watched an ambulance go by, not realizing it was for Frank.

The initial panic she felt was overwhelming, but the person on the line was calm as they explained that someone in the store found Frank unconscious. Emergency responders arrived quickly and immediately noticed his MedicAlert ID. In an instant, a MedicAlert operator was on the line with the paramedics.  

“

It's the reassurance that, in uncertainty,

we have a support system

that goes beyond the ordinary. MedicAlert isn't just an emergency service—it's our guardian in crisis.

Frank & Debbie, MedicAlert Members since 2018

Facts About Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In 2020, there were 928,741 deaths.

25.5% of US Adults have high LDL-C otherwise known as the "bad cholesterol".

Every 34 seconds someone dies of cardiovascular disease in the US. This accounts for 2544 US deaths from CVD per day.

What followed was a testament to MedicAlert’s efficiency. The MedicAlert operator provided Frank’s medical history directly to the paramedics. At the same time, operators contacted Debbie. Not only did MedicAlert provide the details of what transpired in the hardware store, they also gave Debbie the reassuring news that Frank was on his way to the hospital. She rushed to meet him.

By the time Debbie reached the hospital, treatment was already well underway for what turned out to be a sudden heart attack. The ER doctor had Frank’s detailed medical information before he arrived, thanks to MedicAlert. He told Debbie that this made a huge difference—and it even saved Frank’s life. That day, in the emergency room, MedicAlert’s impact became clear.

In a crisis, MedicAlert’s ability to share crucial information turned out to be critical in getting timely and informed medical care.

Frank & Debbie... and MedicAlert Today

Members since 2018, Frank and Debbie see MedicAlert as more than just an accessory. It’s a symbol of security. The couple is grateful for MedicAlert, stating that their “gratitude goes beyond words.”

“It’s the reassurance that, in uncertainty, we have a support system that goes beyond the ordinary. MedicAlert isn’t just an emergency service—it’s our guardian in crisis.”

Debbie jokes about how she used to playfully remind Frank to wear his MedicAlert ID. Recognizing MedicAlert’s immeasurable importance, today, Frank wears his Medical ID without hesitation.

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