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When seconds count: Survivor reunites with EMS team at TriStar Skyline Medical Center

Neil Mitchell of Goodlettsville suffered a severe STEMI heart attack and recovered thanks to the care of his EMS crew and TriStar Skyline as well as TriStar Centennial. He and TriStar Skyline recognized the crew who saved him at a recent reunion.

February 27, 2026
Pictured is patient Neil Mitchell with Nashville Fire Department's Madison Station crew AEMT Carrie Sumrell and Paramedic Robert DeMass who he credits with helping to save his life after a STEMI heart attack.
Pictured is patient Neil Mitchell with Nashville Fire Department's Madison Station crew AEMT Carrie Sumrell and Paramedic Robert DeMass who he credits with helping to save his life after a STEMI heart attack.

On New Year’s Eve, Neil Mitchell was taking down Christmas decorations when he felt it: chest pressure, sweating and trembling.

At first, he brushed off the symptoms and did not was to go to the hospital, convinced he could drive himself if needed. Thankfully, someone called 911.

An advanced EMT and paramedic with Nashville Fire Department’s Madison Station arrived quickly. During transport to TriStar Skyline Medical Center, Mitchell suffered a severe STEMI heart attack and went into cardiac arrest multiple times, flatlining in the ambulance.

Because of the crew’s rapid response and advanced pre-hospital care, Mitchell arrived at TriStar Skyline alive and was taken directly to the cardiac catheterization lab. Physicians placed two stents to restore blood flow. During his recovery, he required a procedure for a pulmonary embolism and later underwent placement of two additional stents at TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

Today, Mitchell continues his recovery through cardiac rehabilitation at TriStar Skyline, grateful for the coordinated care that saved his life.

Recently, TriStar Skyline hosted a special reunion to honor the Nashville Fire Department Madison Station crew. Mitchell reunited with the first responders who helped save him, bringing homemade cookies, a handwritten thank you card and heartfelt gratitude. TriStar Skyline presented each crew member a certificate, challenge coin and a t-shirt in appreciation for their lifesaving care.

“It’s not often we get opportunities like this,” Mitchell shared. “I’m grateful for their sacrifice and for everyone who cared for me. They got me there.”

For EMS professionals, patient outcomes are not always known after care is transferred. The reunion offered a rare, full-circle moment and a powerful reminder that actions taken in critical minutes can mean everything.

During American Heart Month, Mitchell’s message to the community is simple: Don’t wait. Call 911.

Heart attack symptoms can include:

  • Chest discomfort
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body
  • Shortness of breath
  • Breaking out in a cold sweat
  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
Nashville Fire leadership with Neil Mitchell with representatives from TriStar Skyline and TriStar Health.
 Pictured are Nashville Fire leadership with Mitchell and the crew along with representatives from TriStar Skyline and TriStar Health.
Published:
February 27, 2026
Location:
TriStar Skyline Medical Center