NAGS HEAD, N.C. — At a recent Town of Nags Head Board of Commissioners meeting, a group of first responders received a standing ovation for their role in helping to save a man's life after a dramatic beachside cardiac arrest.
On June 9, a routine day at the beach took a dramatic turn when 64-year-old Clay White collapsed, gripped by a heart attack. Enter first-year lifeguard Dounia Hage, who sprang into action with CPR. She was joined by Lifeguard Mason Lenz, Ocean Rescue Supervisors Michael Federline and Reier Gilbertson, and Acting Ocean Rescue Captain Michael Dew.
Members of Nags Head Fire Rescue—Captain Phil Wolfe, Lieutenant Trevor Tilley, and Engineer James Phillips—also jumped in, turning a beach into an impromptu emergency room. Their coordinated efforts, along with the support of Dare County EMS, managed to restart White’s heart and get him to Outer Banks Health Hospital, with further treatment awaiting in Norfolk.
Given that only 10% of people in cardiac arrest nationally make it out alive, this was no small feat. But against the odds, White made a full recovery.
So, at a board meeting on Wednesday, White and his wife, Susan, took the stage to celebrate the rescuers who ensured that their summer would continue with a joyful twist.
“I am blessed by what has happened, and these responders are truly the greatest,” White said, his gratitude echoing through the room. Susan added, “It’s because of you and your rigorous training that my family can continue to enjoy our summers here.”
Mayor Ben Cahoon and Fire and Rescue Chief Randy Wells joined in the praise, emphasizing that these everyday heroes embody the true spirit of commitment and compassion. “In times of crisis, it is the courage, commitment, and compassion of individuals like these who make all the difference,” Wells noted.
