A day of magic at Walt Disney World turned into a heart-stopping ordeal for a Florida couple when their young son’s heart suddenly stopped during a thrilling ride. What began as a fun family outing quickly escalated into a life-or-death situation, showcasing the importance of preparedness and the incredible actions of bystanders in crisis moments.
Five-year-old Ernesto Tagle was riding the popular *Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind* roller coaster at Epcot on September 21 when he suddenly stopped breathing and began to seize about 20 seconds into the ride. His frantic mother, Christine Tagle, described the terrifying moment, saying, “I was screaming, hitting him, and saying something’s wrong.” Seated just a row behind her son, Christine’s worst fears were realized as she frantically searched for a pulse, all while the coaster sped along at 60 miles per hour.
As the ride continued, Christine’s mind raced with panic for her unconscious son. However, the chaos didn’t end there. Once the ride came to a halt, Christine immediately began performing CPR on Ernesto, desperately trying to revive him. Thankfully, help arrived quickly. A nearby couple, who turned out to be a nurse and an EMT, jumped into action along with a Disney employee who provided an automated external defibrillator (AED). Their swift response proved to be critical in restarting the young boy’s heart before he was airlifted to the hospital.
Ernesto’s ordeal didn’t end there. He was rushed to three different hospitals, undergoing countless tests until he was diagnosed with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT)—a rare heart condition that can trigger dangerous arrhythmias during times of intense excitement or activity. His father, also named Ernesto Tagle, detailed the harrowing experience in an emotional Instagram post on September 27, where he expressed gratitude for their son’s recovery.
After the terrifying ride, doctors placed a device in Ernesto’s chest designed to treat life-threatening heart arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest. Miraculously, the family received the news they had been hoping for: their young warrior was recovering with no signs of brain or heart damage. The family recently shared heartwarming photos of Ernesto back at home, excitedly eager to ride his motorcycle, a testament to his resilience and fighting spirit.
The Tagle family expressed immense gratitude for the bystanders who acted heroically to save their son’s life. Christine shared, “We just feel so lucky this didn’t rob us of his smile and energy.” Their appreciation for the quick-thinking individuals who sprang into action highlights the importance of preparedness and community support in times of crisis.
This frightening incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the critical need for vigilance, especially in environments where excitement and exhilaration reign. Thanks to the immediate response of those present, Ernesto Tagle is back at home, where he belongs, brightening his family’s lives once more. As they reflect on their harrowing experience, the Tagles remain grateful for their second chance and for the caring community that rallied around them in their darkest hour.
