In October 2023, Liberty football player Jordan O'Connell collapsed on the field during a game from sudden cardiac arrest. Liberty's athletic trainer, P.J. Gardner, stepped in action with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and utilized an AED (automated external defibrillator) to save Jordan's life.
One year later, Jordan is back on the football field playing the game he loves, while P.J. continues his work in his 22nd year as Liberty's Athletic Trainer. P.J. is a beloved member of Liberty's staff and an essential component of the athletic program, supporting all sports, athletes, and coaches. P.J. is a devoted athlete himself as an avid mountain climber (he's hiked 35 Fourteener peaks), biker, and runner.
Jordan is now a National Ambassador for the Youth American Heart Association. He advocates for CPR and AED training.
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