Mile 97

During a rainy rivalry football game, 14-year-old Daverion Davis collapsed on the field after what looked like a routine hit. At first, his parents thought he had the wind knocked out of him—but within minutes, Daverion was in full cardiac arrest. As his mother held his hand and prayed, CPR was started and an AED was used to shock his heart back into rhythm. Miraculously, after two shocks, his heart started beating again. He was rushed to the hospital and later referred to Manning Family Children’s for specialized cardiac care.

At Manning Family Children’s Heart Center, cardiologist Dr. Scott Macicek diagnosed Daverion with commotio cordis, a rare condition caused by a blow to the chest at a specific moment in the heart’s electrical cycle. While all tests showed a healthy heart, the timing of the hit had triggered his cardiac arrest. Inspired by NFL player Damar Hamlin’s similar experience, Daverion stayed focused on recovery and was cleared to return to football just seven months later. He now wears a small implanted device that continuously monitors his heart and sends regular updates to his care team.

The experience changed not only Daverion’s life but also his family’s. His parents are now advocates for CPR training and AED awareness, encouraging others to be prepared for emergencies. Though they’ll be holding their breath during his first game back, they are confident in his strength, faith, and the expert care that helped him recover. Daverion’s journey is a powerful reminder of how quick action and specialized pediatric care can truly save a life.