This New Year is sweeter than ever because Adrian Ramirez of South Jordan is with his family to enjoy it. This past Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025, he and some family and friends got together for a fun, challenging day outside. They drove to Saratoga Springs for this activity specifically meant to honor those who have served in the armed forces. A Ruck Muck is a tough walk or hike with weighted back packs (the Ruck) known for its supportive and encouraging atmosphere. For three miles all was well until Ramirez collapsed.

“I know CPR and was able to revive my dad. I have had previous rescue experiences with the military overseas,” adopted son Francisco Vazquez said, who is a U.S. Marine veteran. “All of the guys in our group are military. I do a few rucks every year and this was the first time my dad was able to come with me.” 

They knew exactly what to do and jumped into action. They called 911, elevated Ramirez’s feet to calm his blood pressure and provided shade for his comfort. The police came in five minutes and in about 10 more minutes the ambulance came. Vazquez helped the EMT move his dad to the gurney and rode in the ambulance with him to the hospital.

Adrian Ramirez was saved by the CPR of his adopted son Francisco Vazquez. (Photo courtesy Bryant Larsen)

“We hadn’t known he had that blockage until this happened, so it was lucky,” Vazquez saide. “He was actually out of the hospital the next day. It’s important to be in the right place with the right people who know how to do things the right way.”

The Unified Fire and Lehi Fire departments responded to the scene where they began treatment. They contacted Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point when the EKG revealed that Ramirez was in cardiac arrest. Shortly after arriving at the Emergency Department, they found his left anterior descending artery was 95% blocked. He was then rushed into another room to have a stent placed in his heart. This was done quickly because medical professionals have nicknamed that artery “the Widowmaker” because very few with that artery blocked survive. The heart catheterization went well and Ramirez responded well to the procedure. After only one day’s recovery, he was able to go home.

An emotional Ramirez returned to Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point, where he was able to express his thanks to the EMS crew, the hospital team and his son, who all contributed to saving his life. They gathered in a room with 40 people who had come to celebrate his amazingly quick recovery.

“If it wasn’t for people like you, I wouldn’t have had a shot. You guys are heroes, man. I literally owe you my life. Thank you. Bless you all,” he said.

The hospital’s EMS liaison, Gavin Harris, presented Vazquez and the three EMS professionals who took part in saving Ramirez’s life with the CommonSpirit Health “Great Save” award. CommonSpirit Health is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations. Their motto is: Inspired by faith; Driven by innovation; Powered by human kindness.

The crew all ready to go for the hike. (Photo courtesy Francisco Vazquez)