Son saved father’s life with CPR

MIDDLESBORO, Ky. (WYMT) – A near death experience left a Bell County man counting his blessings.

61-year-old Leeroy Henderson credits his son for a second chance at life.  He would not be here today if it were not for the 23-year old’s quick thinking.

23-year-old Josh says his father Leeroy Henderson has always been his hero.

“I’m extremely close to him.  I’ve always been close to him,” Josh Henderson said.

On January 22nd, Josh almost lost his father.  The two were having a conversation at Leeroy’s home when something changed.

“I remember my mouth was moving but no words was coming out of it,” said Leeroy Henderson.

“He turned blue and purple and just every bit of color went out. I thought for sure he was gone,” said Josh Henderson.

Josh realized his hero, his father was having a heart attack.  He started CPR, something he only knew because he had to learn when he got his miner card.

“I’m not going to sit here and let him die.  I’m going to at least do something. I can at least try,” Josh said.

Josh’s girlfriend’s step-father also helped with CPR until paramedics arrived.  The paramedics shocked Leeroy several times.  He spent six days in a coma at UK Medical Center but came through.  He is now back at home in Middlesboro.  Doctors say he is alive thanks to Josh’s CPR.

“I call him my hero.  I was telling everybody that he was my hero.  I was telling everybody that if it weren’t for him, they’d be going to a funeral,” Leeroy said.

The father and son say this shows the importance of knowing CPR.

“I never in a million years thought I would’ve had to use it when I learned it, but I can’t express how important it is to know it.  If I didn’t know it, he would’ve died,” Josh said.

“I get another chance at life.  I get to see my kids grow, my grandkids grow. I thank god for that,” said Leeroy.

Now this father and son are each other’s heroes.

Leeroy Henderson says he is also making some lifestyle changes.  He says he quit smoking and is eating better.