Greenville Reporter

An ordinary day in Greenville, North Carolina, took an unexpected turn when a healthcare worker and a cardiac arrest survivor were reunited. Years after Vicky Greco performed CPR on Tony Parker during a race, the two met again to reflect on that significant day.

In 2021, Greco and her daughter visited Town Common in Greenville, deviating from their usual spot at Peppermint Park. While her daughter played, they noticed a commotion near the finish line of a local 5K race.

“We usually go to Peppermint Park,” Greco recalled. “But for some reason, we decided to go to Town Common that day.”

Greco's daughter alerted her about someone needing help. That person was Tony Parker, who had collapsed from cardiac arrest. His wife, Delia Parker, had already begun chest compressions when Greco arrived.

As manager of the Pediatric Day Medical Unit at the James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center, Greco was experienced in performing CPR. She assisted Delia 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 recovery journey with ECU Health Heart and Vascular Care. At that time, Tony and Delia did not know who helped them and referred to this person as their "angel." After seeing the story, Greco identified herself.

Over three years later, Tony and Greco met under happier circumstances. The reunion was emotional for both parties.

“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, being there affirmed her belief in fate.

“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 now work with organizations like Greenville Fire and Rescue and the Compress and Shock Foundation to promote bystander CPR training across eastern North Carolina.

“We teach people that you don’t need to be certified to make a difference,” Delia explained. “It’s about empowering others to act.”

Tony emphasized the importance of timely intervention during cardiac arrests: “Nearly 90 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims do not survive... Every second counts."

According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Tony also advocates for greater access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and road identifications for athletes: “I encourage everyone in my running and biking groups to wear one... It can be a lifesaver.”

Following his recovery, Tony embraces life with renewed purpose: "Life is good... This experience taught me that every moment matters."

Their story highlights how simple acts of courage can change lives forever while inspiring others to learn lifesaving skills.