An ordinary day in Greenville, North Carolina, became unforgettable when a health care worker and a cardiac arrest survivor were brought together by a twist of fate. Years after Vicky Greco performed CPR on Tony Parker when he collapsed from cardiac arrest during a race, the two were finally reunited and reflected on that fateful day.
In 2021, Greco and her daughter found themselves at Town Common in Greenville, a location they did not typically visit. As her daughter played on the playground, a commotion near the finish line of a local 5K race caught her attention.
“We usually go to Peppermint Park,” Greco recalled. “But for some reason, we decided to go to Town Common that day.”
As Greco’s daughter played on the playground, she noticed a commotion.
“She said, ‘I think someone needs help, Mom,’” Greco said.
That someone was Tony, who had collapsed suddenly in cardiac arrest. His wife, Delia Parker, a trained dental assistant with CPR certification, had already started chest compressions when Greco arrived.
Without hesitation, she stepped in to assist. As manager of the Pediatric Day Medical Unit at the James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center, Greco had experience performing CPR. Together, they worked tirelessly until emergency responders arrived.
“It was a miracle to be there, to have the training and to have the outcome we did,” Greco said. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”
A previous ECU Health News story shared Tony’s inspiring story and his recovery experience with ECU Health Heart and Vascular Care. At the time, Tony and Delia did not know who the person was that stepped in to perform chest compressions. They called the unidentified person their “angel.” After seeing the story, Greco reached out to identify herself.
Over three years later, Tony and Greco were finally able to meet under much happier circumstances. The reunion was deeply emotional, with Tony expressing heartfelt gratitude for Greco.
“Today, God revealed our angel,” said Tony. “If it weren’t for Vicky and Delia, I wouldn’t be here today. It’s amazing how everything aligned.”
For Greco, the encounter affirmed her faith in being at the right place at the right time.
“I’m thankful that God put me there that day,” she said. “The outcome was nothing short of amazing.”
Motivated by their experience, Tony and Delia Parker have since joined forces with organizations like Greenville Fire and Rescue and the Compress and Shock Foundation to promote bystander CPR training. Together, they visit local churches, community centers and underserved areas across eastern North Carolina to emphasize how simple actions can save lives.
“We teach people that you don’t need to be certified to make a difference,” Delia explained. “It’s about empowering others to act.”
The Parkers continue to share their story, inspiring communities to act in moments of crisis.
“Nearly 90 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims do not survive,” Tony said. “Even with help, survival is only about 30 percent, but without it, it’s almost zero. Every second counts, and timely intervention can significantly increase survival rates.”
According to the American Heart Association, if performed immediately, CPR can double or triple the chance of survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Tony has also become an advocate for greater access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and the use of road identifications for athletes.
“I encourage everyone in my running and biking groups to wear one,” he said. “It can be a lifesaver.”
Following his recovery, Tony has embraced life with renewed purpose.
“Life is good,” he shared. “Even with a cardiac issue, you can still enjoy life. This experience taught me that every moment matters.”
Their story stands as a testament that heroes often emerge in unexpected moments, and that simple acts of courage and compassion can change lives forever. Their journey continues to inspire others to learn, act and save lives.