Athens, Ga. (September 26, 2025) – James Sheppard, 65, had just finished chalking the lines at Apalachee High School’s softball field when he collapsed from cardiac arrest while speaking with his daughter, Erica Rudell, a health and physical education coach at the school.

At first, Rudell thought her father was choking. But when she realized he wasn’t breathing, she lowered him to the ground and began CPR. She called for help and asked someone to retrieve the automated external defibrillator (AED) from the concession stand.

Apalachee softball coach Brooke Houlihan responded immediately, bringing the AED to the scene. Rudell’s husband took over chest compressions, and a nurse from the opposing team stepped in to assist. The AED was used to deliver two shocks. Moments later, Sheppard opened his eyes, took a breath and began vomiting.

Emergency medical services arrived quickly and transported Sheppard to the hospital, where he received life-saving cardiac care.

Less than a month later, Sheppard—known affectionately as “PawPaw” at the ball field—is back in his chair behind home plate, cheering on his granddaughters and the Lady Wildcats.

Sheppard’s survival is credited to the swift response of those around him. They recognized the emergency, administered CPR, used an AED and acted without hesitation.

CPR and AED training can empower anyone to save a life. Click here to find CPR and first aid classes at a Piedmont facility near you.