Registered nurse named First Friday Hero® for jumping into action after fan suffers heart attack at baseball game
Columbus, Ga. (July 2, 2026) - Piedmont Columbus Regional has named labor and delivery registered nurse Nicole Clasen the organization’s First Friday Hero® for the month of July.
Clasen was attending a Columbus Clingstones game one evening when a man collapsed. While others stood back, she immediately stepped in without hesitation. Clasen took charge and performed CPR by herself for nearly two minutes until additional help arrived. In a terrifying and emotional moment, she showed incredible bravery, professionalism and selflessness. Although the outcome was tragic, she gave the man every possible chance through her quick action and determination.
A ceremony with Clasen and hospital leadership will be held at 10 a.m. on July 8 at Synovus Park to commend her for her response. Her story is also featured throughout the hospital on commemorative posters and Piedmont Columbus Regional’s social media pages.
Piedmont Columbus Regional created the First Friday Hero® program in 2016 to recognize first responders and everyday heroes each month who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations are accepted year-round. Go to Piedmont.org/FirstFridayHero to make a submission.
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