Hastings, Minnesota isn’t just known for its small-town charm — recently it became the setting for a powerful real-life reminder of why CPR and AED readiness matters. A sudden cardiac arrest in a local bar turned into a near-tragedy that ended in survival, all because someone knew what to do and had the right tools nearby.

The Moment That Changed Everything

On a typical evening at Dugarel’s Bar and Grill in Hastings, something unexpected happened — a man suddenly collapsed from cardiac arrest in front of other patrons.

An off-duty paramedic, Lucas Kanoll, happened to be inside the establishment. He immediately stepped in to help. Recognizing the emergency, Lucas began chest compressions and then instructed a server to bring the nearby Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).

Once the AED advised a shock and was used, Lucas resumed compressions — and the man began to regain a pulse. He was later taken to the hospital, where doctors placed two stents in his heart. Without those critical early minutes of CPR and AED shock, the outcome could have been very different.

Why This Hastings Save Matters to All Minnesotans

Lives Depend on Seconds

Cardiac arrest outside a hospital is one of the few medical emergencies where immediate action directly predicts survival. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces the chance of survival significantly. Even with fast EMS response, it still takes time to arrive — time that CPR & AED use buys.

AEDs in Public Places Save Hearts

The AED at Dugarel’s wasn’t there by accident. It was placed through a local initiative involving community members, the Hastings Fire Relief Association, and programs like Allina Health Heart Safe Communities, which place and register AEDs across the region.

Because the device was already on site, and because someone knew how to use it, a life was saved.

Everyday People Are Lifesavers

Lucas was off-duty, and the bar patrons were just going about their evening. What brought them together in that moment was response readiness — a willingness to act fast, start compressions, and use an AED when every second counted.

What Minnesotans Should Know

These facts are worth remembering:

• Cardiac arrest strikes without warning.
You never know when someone around you — a friend, family member, coworker, or stranger — may need help.

• Survival improves dramatically with CPR + AED.
Bystander CPR with early defibrillation can more than double a victim’s chance of survival.

• AED access matters.
Having devices in businesses, gyms, bars, and public spaces makes lifesaving tools immediately available.

How You Can Be Ready to Save a Life

This Hastings story is inspiring, but it’s also a clear call to action for everyone in Minnesota:

1. Get Certified in CPR

Hands-on training builds confidence, muscle memory, and preparedness to act in real heart emergencies.

2. Learn AED Use

Modern AEDs are designed for simplicity, with spoken prompts that guide users through defibrillation safely and quickly.

3. Advocate for AEDs in Your Community

Encourage local businesses, schools, gyms, and venues to install AEDs and register them with public safety apps.

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Don’t Wait — Learn CPR & AED Today

Cardiac emergencies don’t wait for the perfect moment. But with proper training and AED awareness, you can be the difference between life and death.

👉 Sign up for In-Pulse CPR’s hands-on CPR & AED course in Minnesota — build skills that prepare you to help others confidently and effectively.

Every minute counts.
Be the responder.
Be the one who acts.