One-year anniversary of North Central grad who survived cardiac arrest in early 20s

FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Friends and family threw a surprise party for the one-year anniversary of Ramy Chilton surviving cardiac arrest.

On August 27th, 2023, Raymond and Pam Chilton were woken up in the middle of the night by a friend of their son’s. He said Ramy was unresponsive.

Pam, being trained in cpr, immediately began chest compressions while her husband called 911.

Ramy was taken to the hospital, but doctors couldn’t figure out the cause of the problem.

He went to regional hospital and then he was lifelined by helicopter to go to St. Vincent. He was there for probably about two weeks before he was able to come home. They never could figure out why he went into cardiac arrest.

Pam Chilton – Ramy’s Mother

Ramy was shocked three times to get his pulse back. Because docotors couldn’t find the cause, he was given a defibrillator.

Ramy’s dad, Raymond, had went through a similar process with his father and knew the struggles of getting back to everyday life.

Me watching my father was doctors’ appointments, hospitals, medicine. Ramy’s number one thing that he struggles with now is the medicine. The defibrillator doesn’t bother him one bit.

Raymond Chilton – Ramy’s Father

Sunday, Ramy’s friends and family gathered at George Heap Park in Farmersburg to surprise him on the one-year anniversary. However, with modern technology, Ramy was suspicious of an event days in advance.

I kind of knew. But when I came down the road and saw all the vehicles, it threw me for a surprise because I didn’t realize how many people were going to be here for me.

Ramy Chilton – Cardiac Arrest Survivor

Despite the lack of surprise, Ramy says it means a lot.

It really means a lot. It really shows that a lot of people care in the community and a lot of people are there for me.

Ramy Chilton – Cardiac Arrest Survivor

Ramy’s dad actually took on the challenge of a new diet with his son, despite his love for cheeseburgers.

His advice to anyone out there that has a loved one dealing with heart issues: be patient.

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