I have always wondered what would happen if a football game official had a medical emergency on the field during the game. I thought it would likely be him being run over by a player.
Well, that's not how it happened Friday night at Sylacauga's Legion Stadium. The Sylacauga Aggies were hosting the Coosa Central Cougars in the Battle of Hatchett Creek.
Game official Joey Shelnutt had a heart attack in the second quarter. All of a sudden, he fell out on the field, was unresponsive and began turning white.
Instantly, Good Samaritans went into action. Here is the story of what happened from Jimmy Reynolds, who was there taking pictures and praying:
Here is what Kim Shock Wright experienced:
Fifteen-year football official Lew Murphy immediately began CPR, which he had learned on his job at the Sylacauga Walmart. They posted the story:
“This past Friday night at Sylacauga High School, Lew Murphy, one of our very own, became a hero. When fellow official Joey Shelnutt collapsed during the game, Lew immediately stepped in and performed CPR. His quick action, steady leadership, and courage under pressure saved Joey’s life — not once, but twice.”
By the grace of God and the actions of responsible people, Joey Shelnutt survived a close call. At the time of this writing, he is in stable condition. He was diagnosed with multiple blockages and faces bypass surgery next week.
After a 20-minute delay, the game was restarted with one less official. The Sylacauga Aggies went on to win 44 to Coosa Central's 22. But the big result was that Joey Shelnutt and all who joined in prayer won.
Jim 'Zig' Zeigler's beat is the colorful and positive about Alabama -- her people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at [email protected].
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