Scranton Student Athlete Puts into Action Lifesaving CPR Skills
Off the field, University of Scranton baseball player Christopher Gutt '24, a kinesiology major, puts into practice the skills — and values— gained through his Jesuit education.As a left-handed pitcher for The University of Scranton baseball team, Christopher Gutt ’24 contributes his talents on the field, helping the team capture a second Landmark Conference title in four seasons and a single-season program record of 30 victories. Off the field, the Narbeth native puts into practice the skills – and values— gained through eight years of Jesuit education.
Prior to his time as a Royal, Gutt attended Saint Joseph’s Prep, where he received the “Man for Others” award. His response to a situation near the University campus on Sunday, March 3, is a testament to that service of faith.
After returning from a team victory against Gettysburg College, Gutt was headed downtown for dinner. On his path, the kinesiology major noticed a man on the ground, and Gutt instantly put his University health science training into action.
“I hopped out the car because I could see that something was obviously seriously wrong, having been through my health profession classes and being CPR trained,” Gutt said in an interview with the Royal Vision podcast published April 9.
“It was kind of just second nature…. I just hopped out and did what I needed to do.”
After noting the man’s pallor and lack of pulse, Gutt said he started CPR and continued for approximately five minutes until a nurse driving by pulled up to assist until paramedics arrived.
Though Gutt had no additional contact with the man, a source confirmed that he had survived.
“I’m really glad he made it through this one. I was in the right place at the right time, because other people driving by might not have been trained,” said Gutt.
“I think … everyone should get CPR training. It only takes a day. You could save somebody’s life. It’s really important.”
