18-Year-Old Runner Miraculously Revives After Marathon Cardiac Arrest with No After-Effects After Two Months in Hospital

Runner Declared Dead After 90-Minute cardiac Arrest Makes Miraculous Recovery

Bergamo, Italy – December 3, 2025 – In a stunning medical anomaly, an 18-year-old runner has defied all odds adn fully recovered after being clinically dead for 90 minutes during a trail marathon in the Italian Alps.Jiri Marzi, a participant in the Lake Como race on September 27th, was found with a body temperature of just 21°C (70°F) and no heartbeat, leading emergency responders to pronounce him deceased.

The ordeal began when Marzi strayed from the marked course, becoming lost at an altitude of 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) in freezing conditions. “I told myself I wouldn’t make it. I couldn’t even use my phone, my fingers were frozen. I accepted the situation. Then I don’t remember the last few minutes,” Marzi recounted to Bergamo Corriere.

after failing to arrive at a checkpoint, a search was launched. rescuers discovered marzi’s body, and Luca Lorini, director of the emergency and intensive care department at Papa Giovanni Hospital in Bergamo, stated bluntly, “He was dead. Cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, body temperature of 21 degrees: death.”

However, doctors refused to concede defeat. marzi was promptly transported to the hospital and connected to an ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) machine – essentially an artificial lung – which oxygenated his blood and circulated it throughout his body. He remained on ECMO for six days, followed by nine days in intensive care, two weeks in a general medical ward, and four weeks of rehabilitation.

Remarkably, 68 days after the incident, Marzi has made a complete recovery, showing no lasting effects from the prolonged cardiac arrest. “A miracle,” according to Lorini, attributed to the athlete’s “robust constitution and young age.”

In a testament to his spirit, Marzi’s first question upon regaining consciousness was whether he had received a medal for completing the race. This extraordinary case underscores the resilience of the human body and the dedication of medical professionals pushing the boundaries of resuscitation.

What are the potential benefits and limitations of pre-participation screening for HCM in young athletes?

The Incident: A Marathon Turns Critical

On October 17th, 2025, during the Berlin Marathon, 18-year-old Elias Richter collapsed near the 35-kilometer mark. Witnesses reported he went down without warning, promptly receiving assistance from race medical personnel. Initial assessments revealed a complete cardiac arrest. Quick action, including immediate CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), proved crucial in stabilizing him. This incident highlights the importance of readily available marathon medical support and the life-saving potential of CPR training.

Immediate Response & Critical Care

The swift response at the marathon was paramount. Paramedics administered advanced life support, including intubation and medication, before transporting Richter to the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a leading hospital specializing in cardiac care. He was placed in a medically induced coma to allow his body to recover and minimize potential brain damage from oxygen deprivation. The first 72 hours were critical, with doctors closely monitoring his vital signs and neurological function. This case underscores the significance of emergency medical services in endurance events.

Identifying the Underlying Cause: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

After extensive testing, doctors determined the cause of Richter’s cardiac arrest was hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic condition causing the heart muscle to thicken. This thickening can disrupt the heart’s electrical system, leading to arrhythmias and, in severe cases, sudden cardiac arrest. HCM is frequently enough undiagnosed,particularly in young athletes,making pre-participation screening vital.While not always detectable, an ECG (electrocardiogram) and echocardiogram can often identify structural abnormalities.

Two Months of Recovery: A Remarkable Turnaround

Richter spent two months in the hospital, undergoing intensive rehabilitation.This included:

* Cardiac Rehabilitation: A structured programme designed to improve cardiovascular health and function.

* Physical Therapy: Focused on regaining strength, endurance, and coordination.

* Neurological Assessments: Regular monitoring to ensure no lasting neurological deficits.

* Medication Management: Prescribed beta-blockers to help regulate his heart rythm and reduce the risk of future arrhythmias.

The medical team reported Richter’s recovery was “nothing short of miraculous.” He showed consistent enhancement, exceeding expectations at every stage. The absence of any neurological damage or lasting cardiac impairment is particularly noteworthy.

The Role of Therapeutic Hypothermia

A key component of Richter’s initial treatment was therapeutic hypothermia. this involves cooling the body to a specific temperature (typically between 32-36°C) for a period of 24-48 hours after cardiac arrest. The goal is to reduce metabolic rate and minimize brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation. Studies have shown therapeutic hypothermia can considerably improve neurological outcomes in patients who have experienced sudden cardiac arrest.

Genetic Testing & Family Screening

Following Richter’s diagnosis, genetic testing was conducted to identify the specific gene mutation responsible for his HCM. This information is crucial for family screening. His parents and siblings are now undergoing testing to determine if thay carry the same genetic marker. Early detection allows for proactive management and potentially prevents similar tragedies. Genetic counseling is also being offered to the family.

Return to Running: A Cautious Approach

While Richter has made a full physical recovery, his return to competitive running will be carefully managed. He is currently undergoing a phased rehabilitation program under the supervision of a cardiologist and exercise physiologist.

* Phase 1 (Months 3-6): Low-intensity exercise, focusing on building a base level of fitness.

* Phase 2 (Months 6-12): Gradual increase in intensity and duration, with regular cardiac monitoring.

* Phase 3 (months 12+): Potential return to competitive running, contingent on ongoing assessments and clearance from his medical team.

An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is not currently deemed necessary, given the absence of ongoing arrhythmia and the successful management of his HCM with medication. However,this will be continually reassessed.

The Importance of AEDs and CPR Training

richter’s case serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of AED accessibility and widespread CPR certification. The quick actions of bystanders and race medical personnel undoubtedly saved his life.

* AEDs: should be readily available at all sporting events and public places.

* CPR Training: Empowers individuals to respond effectively in emergency situations. Numerous organizations offer CPR and AED training courses.

* Early Recognition: Knowing the signs of cardiac arrest (sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, absence of breathing) is crucial for prompt action.

Real-World Example: The Henry Suder Story

While Richter’s case is recent, it echoes the story of Henry Suder, a collegiate cross-country runner who collapsed during a race in 2018 due to undiagnosed HCM. Suder also received immediate CPR and AED intervention, and while his recovery was more complex, it highlights the potential