Piedmont Augusta honors first responders who saved cardiac arrest victim at Peach Jam

Augusta, Ga. (August 7, 2026) – Piedmont Augusta has named members of the North Augusta Department of Public Safety (NADPS), athletic trainers and Aiken EMS personnel as its First Friday Heroes for August after their lifesaving actions during a cardiac arrest at the Nike EYBL Peach Jam basketball tournament.

The recognition honors a coordinated team response that helped save the life of a Texas father who suddenly collapsed while attending the nationally recognized youth basketball event in North Augusta.

Public safety officers, athletic trainers and EMS personnel worked together to provide continuous, high-quality CPR, rotating frequently to maintain effective compressions while preparing the patient for advanced life support.

Those recognized include:

• Lt. Clay Swann
• Lt. Kyle Golden
• Sgt. Ed Galo
• PSO Chris Morehouse
• PSO Iyceiss Drayton
• PSO Dan Snogans
• PSO Ryan Dabbs
• PSO Matt Coule
• PSO Aubrey Alewine
• PSO Scott Bernardini
• Athletic Trainer Trish Leslie
• Athletic Trainer Jessica Coleman
• Paramedic Hamilton Rivers
• Paramedic Yvette Barrett

Responders performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) while awaiting EMS arrival. Once on scene, EMS personnel continued advanced cardiac life support during transport to Piedmont Augusta.

The patient was transported to Piedmont Augusta, where emergency, critical care and cardiovascular teams continued treatment.

The patient's family credits the rapid response and teamwork of first responders, athletic trainers, EMS personnel and hospital caregivers with saving his life.

"As a nurse, I've seen firsthand how critical those first moments can be during a cardiac emergency," said Janee Dock, chief nursing officer at Piedmont Augusta. "This patient's survival is a testament to what can happen when first responders and hospital caregivers work together seamlessly. Because of their quick actions, teamwork and commitment to excellence, a husband and father was able to return home to his family."

"You have the right people in the right roles," said Cornell Larry. "The first responders who came to my aid and the caregivers at Piedmont Augusta treated me like family. Their quick actions, expertise and compassion gave me a second chance, and my family and I are forever grateful."

A ceremony honoring the recipients was held with hospital leadership. Each received a commemorative plaque recognizing their extraordinary teamwork and service.

Piedmont Augusta launched the First Friday Hero program to recognize first responders who go above and beyond the call of duty.

"The first responders in the CSRA are all truly heroes," Dock said. "Their work is often challenging, and they routinely step into difficult situations to help others. We want our community to understand and appreciate the critical role they play in saving lives every day."

To nominate a CSRA first responder for the Piedmont Augusta First Friday Hero award, complete the online nomination form or email firstfridayheroaugusta@piedmont.org.