05/25/2026
Per his mom, zero brain damage!
All because a bystander jumped in and started early CPR!
How are we still asking this question...why aren't AEDs required at ALL sporting events across ALL states where kids are present?
You can follow Bryson's story under his mom's Facebook account.
Praying for a speedy recovery do Bryson! ♥️
❤️TEEN SUFFERS CARDIAC ARREST WHILE PLAYING BASEBALL OVER THE WEEKEND❤️
5/21/26
A North Carolina family is calling for more lifesaving equipment at youth sporting events after their 13-year-old son collapsed from cardiac arrest during a baseball game this past weekend.
Bryson Blanton was rounding second base during a game in Charlotte when he suddenly fell to the ground. His parents, Randy Blanton and Samantha Blanton, said there had been no warning signs that anything was wrong.
The family says Bryson likely survived because an off-duty Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer immediately rushed in to perform CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
According to Bryson’s father, the officer asked for an AED defibrillator at the field, but there wasn’t one available. Fortunately, nearby paramedics had an AED and were able to restore Bryson’s heartbeat.
Now, the Blanton family hopes Bryson’s experience raises awareness about the need for AEDs at youth sporting events and public spaces.
“Not just for the athletes,” Samantha Blanton said. “What if it’s a grandparent sitting in the stands? What if it’s a young sibling playing on the playground? What if it’s the umpire?”
Bryson remains hospitalized but is reportedly improving each day, and his family expects him to be taken off a ventilator soon. His mother described him as “a living miracle” while thanking the baseball community and strangers who have supported the family through the ordeal.
North Carolina law currently requires AEDs in government and state-owned buildings, but not necessarily at all youth sports facilities.
Prayers for Bryson!
