CANADALAND Interview With a Guy Who Died
Sep 22, 2025
Matthew Church, a writer and editor, faced death when he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest in 2014. He shares his harrowing experience of collapsing at home, being revived after eight minutes without a pulse, and the emotional aftermath of his recovery. Matthew discusses the importance of CPR, which saved his life, and offers practical advice on managing stress and confronting mortality. His reflections provide a profound perspective on living fully and the impact of family health history on personal wellness.
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How A Dog And His Wife Saved Him
- Matthew Church collapsed at home after a night bike ride and was found blue and unresponsive by his wife and dog.
- Paramedics performed CPR, used an AED and after multiple shocks regained a faint pulse before rushing him to hospital.
The Widowmaker Explained
- Matthew's event was a STEMI caused by a 100% blockage of the left anterior descending artery, the so-called 'widowmaker.'
- That blockage stops blood to the heart muscle and can quickly cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Cognitive Aftermath Can Be Temporary
- Matthew experienced transient blindness and severe short-term memory loss after resuscitation, raising concern for brain injury.
- He gradually recovered cognitive function, showing outcomes can vary widely even after prolonged arrest.