ESPN personality Peter Burns had a terrifying close call this past weekend when he nearly choked to death while dining with colleagues in Columbia, Missouri. Burns, known for hosting shows like SEC Now and SEC This Morning on ESPN and the SEC Network, shared the harrowing experience on social media, explaining how a Missouri fan ultimately saved his life.
The incident occurred on Friday night as Burns and his coworkers were having dinner ahead of the Missouri vs. Boston College football game. During the meal, Burns began choking on a piece of food and quickly realized he couldn’t breathe. In a panic, he motioned to those around him, signaling that he needed immediate help.
One of his friends attempted the Heimlich maneuver, but the food remained lodged in Burns’ throat. Desperate for air, Burns asked a second person to try, but again, the maneuver didn’t work. Even a nurse who happened to be nearby stepped in to assist, but their efforts were also unsuccessful.
As the minutes ticked by and Burns continued to struggle, he described the chilling sensation of losing his vision and feeling himself start to “black out.” Two agonizing minutes passed without any success in dislodging the food, and Burns was on the brink of losing consciousness.
RELATED: College Football Team Involved in Illegal Migrant Smuggling Operation
Just when it seemed there was no hope, a man named Jack Foster intervened. Foster, a youth sports coach who had recently undergone CPR and emergency response training, stepped in to attempt the Heimlich maneuver. Miraculously, Foster’s efforts succeeded, and he was able to dislodge the food from Burns’ throat just as the ESPN host was about to lose consciousness.
“That training is why I am here right now,” Burns shared on social media, expressing his immense gratitude for Foster’s timely intervention. “I’m thankful for him and all involved that helped save my life that night.”
In the aftermath of the incident, Missouri football trainers stepped in to further assist Burns, ensuring he received the necessary medical attention. While Burns survived the ordeal, he revealed that the force of the Heimlich maneuver resulted in slight fractures in four of his ribs.
Despite the pain and the near-death experience, Burns took to social media to reflect on how lucky he felt to be alive, thanks to the quick actions of those around him. He particularly highlighted the importance of emergency training and how Foster’s recent certification in CPR and life-saving techniques directly contributed to his survival.
The terrifying moment serves as a powerful reminder of how crucial basic first aid and CPR training can be in emergency situations. Burns’ ordeal also underscores the importance of quick, decisive action in saving lives when seconds count.
As for Burns, he returned to his broadcasting duties, undoubtedly with a new perspective on life.
Though he’s left with some painful injuries, the ESPN host remains deeply thankful to Foster and everyone else who played a role in saving his life that night.
