The caller was in a panic — someone at USC’s Galen Center needed immediate medical help.
“We need an ambulance. Immediately,” the caller urgently said.
“Listen,” the caller repeated. “Listen, listen, listen, listen, OK? Get an ambulance here. Now!”
Remaining calm, the 911 dispatcher assured the caller that paramedics were on their way.
“Alright sir, we’re going to send help,” the dispatcher said. “Don’t hang up, sir. Don’t hang up.”
The dispatcher stayed on the phone for less than a minute, but it was enough time to ensure that Bronny James, the 18-year-old son of NBA star Lebron James who had recently joined USC’s men’s basketball team, was promptly taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center on Monday, July 24. (source)
The hospital confirmed that the younger James had been successfully treated for a sudden cardiac arrest.
USC athletics’ medical staff also received credit for their quick and effective response when James collapsed during a basketball practice at the Galen Center. When he arrived at Cedars-Sinai, he was conscious, neurologically intact, and stable.
“Mr. James received prompt care from our highly-trained staff and has been discharged home to rest,” said hospital officials.
Although the audio of the call was redacted and did not reveal the caller’s identity or the specifics of the medical emergency, Lebron James expressed gratitude on Twitter for the support his family received during this time.
“I want to thank the countless people sending my family love and prayers. We feel you and I’m so grateful,” said the elder James. “We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love. Will have more to say when we’re ready but I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!”