Arizona School Nurse Saves Staff Member with a ZOLL AED

AED and Quick Action Save School Staff Member in Arizona Classroom

“When in doubt, use it…the AED walks you through every step until EMS arrives.”

When Shanta walked into a classroom that morning at Desert Thunder, she didn’t feel quite herself. Her breathing became difficult and before she could call for help, she collapsed.

Calling for Help

Help arrived almost instantly when co-worker Ms. Green called for help. Staff members were alerted that someone was in distress, and school nurse Rhonda rushed to the scene. “When I arrived, Shanta was lying on the ground, unresponsive,” they recalled. “I called 911 right away and began assessing her. When her breathing slowed and pulse weakened, I called to a co-worker, Ms. Green, to grab the AED from the health office.”

AED in Action

The ZOLL AED 3 was brought quickly and applied. “When the device told me to start compressions, I just focused on her and prayed for a good outcome,” the rescuer said. The AED’s clear voice prompts guided every step until paramedics arrived to take over.

Rhonda Smorong, Shanta Winters, and Mary Green in front of the ZOLL AED 3 — Rhonda Smorong, Shanta Winters, and Mary Green

Shanta woke up later in the emergency room with little memory of what happened—but full awareness of how lucky she was. “I was exhausted and just remember my vision going blurry,” she shared. “The staff being right there and acting so fast is what saved me.”

Reflecting on her experience, Shanta encourages others to take care of themselves and to never ignore when someone seems in distress. “Keep regular checkups, and if you’re not feeling well, make sure you’re around people who can help,” she said. “I want to thank everyone who was there for me.”

Group photo with Shanta and her the rescuers honored at a recognition ceremony — A ceremony honoring all who played a part in Shanta’s rescue.

Why Every School Needs an AED

For the rescuers, the experience underscored the importance of having an AED on campus—and not hesitating to use it. “When in doubt, use it,” Rhonda advised. “The AED walks you through every step until EMS arrives.”

That day in Goodyear, Arizona, preparedness, teamwork, and the presence of an AED turned what could have been a tragedy into a story of survival. It’s a powerful reminder that anyone can be the difference—and taking action truly saves lives.