Student Revives Basketball Dreams After Cardiac Arrest

Jake Chapman defies odds to return to the court at Grand Rapids Community College

Feb. 26, 2026 at 11:49am

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At 17 years old, Jake Chapman collapsed during dinner and went into cardiac arrest. His father performed CPR, which saved his life. After a week-long coma and months of rehabilitation, Chapman has returned to the basketball court at Grand Rapids Community College, where he is wrapping up a standout freshman season.

Why it matters

Chapman's story highlights the importance of learning CPR, as his father's quick action was crucial in saving his life. It also demonstrates the resilience and determination of young athletes who face life-threatening medical events, and the role of rehabilitation in helping them return to the sports they love.

The details

While recovering from a concussion, Chapman suddenly collapsed during dinner. His father immediately performed CPR, which kept his heart going until paramedics arrived and shocked him twice with an AED. Chapman was hospitalized for a week in a coma, and underwent months of outpatient rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital to regain his strength and cognitive abilities. His goal was to return to the basketball court for his senior year of high school, which he was able to achieve.

  • Two years ago, Chapman collapsed during dinner as a junior in high school.
  • After a week-long coma, Chapman began his rehabilitation process.
  • Chapman was able to return to the basketball court for his senior year of high school.
  • Now a freshman, Chapman is wrapping up a standout season with the Grand Rapids Community College men's basketball team.

The players

Jake Chapman

A 17-year-old freshman forward on the Grand Rapids Community College men's basketball team who survived a cardiac arrest and has revived his basketball dreams.

Chad Chapman

Jake Chapman's father, who performed CPR on his son when he collapsed, saving his life.

Joe Fox

The head coach of the Grand Rapids Community College men's basketball team, who said Chapman has had a great start to his collegiate career.

Erin Diephouse

One of Jake Chapman's physical therapists at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, who worked with him to regain his strength and endurance.

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What they’re saying

“Basketball has been good so far. You know, we had a great season, and we're wrapping up here shortly.”

— Jake Chapman

“He probably started five or 10 games as a freshman, which does not happen very often. So he's had a really great start.”

— Joe Fox, GRCC men's basketball coach

“Don't be scared to do CPR. Don't be scared to plug in or even learn how... Most people are scared to do it, to jump into action, but really, it's what saved lives.”

— Jake Chapman

What’s next

Chapman will continue to undergo yearly checkups to monitor his pacemaker, and he plans to keep playing basketball while also pursuing a degree in HVAC at Grand Rapids Community College.

The takeaway

Jake Chapman's story serves as an inspiring example of the power of determination and the importance of learning life-saving skills like CPR. His journey back to the basketball court after a near-fatal cardiac event demonstrates the resilience of young athletes and the critical role of rehabilitation in helping them achieve their dreams.