A Stranger Performed CPR For 20 Minutes And Saved A Montreal Man’s Life

May 21, 2025

Today's happy news story comes from Montreal, Canada.

A family is on a mission to find the stranger who saved 87-year-old Sabato Borrelli’s life after he went into cardiac arrest during a daily walk.

On May 15 around 3 p.m., Borrelli collapsed—likely near Jarry Park—while out for his usual walk. A passerby jumped into action, performing CPR on him for about 20 minutes until paramedics arrived. Thanks to the efforts of this Good Samaritan, Borrelli is alive and recovering in the hospital, where he recently celebrated his 87th birthday.

His daughter, Gloria Borrelli, is now trying to identify and thank the person who gave her more time with her father.

“This gentleman, or woman or child — I don't know who saved my father,” she said. “All they wanted was this person to have a chance, and he was given that chance.”

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) and other medical authorities, for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation after cardiac arrest, the chance of survival decreases by about 7–10%. That means quick action—especially performing CPR—can make a dramatic difference in whether someone lives or dies.

Why timing matters:

First few minutes are critical because the heart has stopped beating effectively and the brain and organs are being deprived of oxygen.
CPR helps maintain blood flow, buying precious time until emergency responders arrive.

The emotional impact of the rescue runs deep for the Borrelli family. Lucy Orfeo, Borrelli’s daughter-in-law, said his recovery brought a mix of hope and sorrow. Almost three years ago, her daughter Martina—Sabato’s granddaughter—died suddenly at age 20 from a brain hemorrhage and cardiac arrest, despite being in an ambulance at the time.

Now, the stranger’s lifesaving act feels like a tribute to Martina, who was known for her compassion and positive spirit.

"'If you're kind you can change the world,' that's what she would say. That was her thing, so it's kind of like what's fuelling me," said Orfeo about her search for the person who saved Borrelli.

"Our family was given a second chance," she added.

Watch the video below: