During a father-daughter dance, a bride’s dad collapsed suddenly, creating a terrifying moment that miraculously ended well, thanks to quick, life-saving actions.
Weddings are joyful, emotional celebrations where couples vow to stand by each other through anything. After the ceremony, guests share a meal, laughter, and memories. It’s a time of happiness that most would say is unforgettable.
Yet for one family, the wedding festivities took a startling and dangerous twist.
Father-Daughter Dance Goes from Heartwarming to Heart-Stopping
The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reported that Brad Carver and his daughter Emily Alvarez, who had just been married, were performing a choreographed father-daughter dance to Taylor Swift’s “You Need to Calm Down.” Just a minute into their routine, Brad collapsed on the dance floor.
Fortunately, a series of events seemed almost divinely arranged to save him. Among the guests were individuals trained in CPR and emergency response, including the photographer.
The Perfect Timing That Saved Brad’s Life
When Brad fell, these guests acted immediately, performing CPR and using a defibrillator on him. Since the reception was held in a public venue, an AED defibrillator was readily available, a requirement for public spaces but not for private events.
After being transported to the hospital, Brad underwent an emergency triple bypass surgery. His survival owed much to the swift actions of the wedding guests, as well as the presence of the AED, turning Emily’s big day from what could have been tragic to miraculous.
Reflecting on the event, Emily expressed deep gratitude, recognizing how differently things could have gone.
“Unfortunately, it happened on my wedding day, but fortunately, it happened on my wedding day because everything aligned perfectly to save his life,” she shared in a Facebook video.
A New Outlook for Brad and Emily
For Brad, the experience brought a new perspective on life. “It’s overwhelming,” he said. “I died, came back to life, and now see things differently.”
Emily, nearly losing her father, has a new appreciation for loved ones and shared moments. Her message to others: “Cherish your parents, whether it’s your father or mother, and celebrate their life with love.”