When Assistant Fire Chief John Lucariello of the Rombout Fire Company collapsed while responding to an early morning fire in Fishkill, NY, his fellow firefighters and paramedics rushed to his side. Despite repeated attempts to restart his heart, John was pronounced dead at the scene. Then, just minutes later, something extraordinary happened: his heart began to beat on its own again.

John was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center where cardiac specialists took over his care. Through advanced technology, expert intervention, and continuous monitoring, the team guided him through a fragile recovery and toward the possibility of life after cardiac arrest.

Weeks later, when John stepped out of the hospital doors, he was greeted by a moving tribute: fire trucks and police cruisers lining the route home and sirens sounding in solidarity. The man who had spent his life protecting others was now being carried forward by the strength of his community and the care that helped bring him back.

John’s story reflects how WMCHealth is reimagining possible, turning moments of crisis into moments of renewal. His recovery exemplifies the power of advanced cardiac care, collaborative expertise, and a network united by purpose. At Westchester Medical Center, innovation and compassion come together to create outcomes once thought unimaginable, redefining what’s possible for every patient, every day.