Woman Revived After 17 Minutes of Cardiac Arrest Shares Surreal Near-Death Experience

Victoria Thomas' story offers a rare glimpse into consciousness during cardiac arrest and the incredible resilience of medical teams and patients.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:48pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the intricate structure of a human heart glowing against a dark background, symbolizing the medical challenges and triumph of Victoria Thomas' story.A rare glimpse into the resilience of the human heart, as seen through the lens of a medical X-ray, reflects the extraordinary journey of Victoria Thomas.Cleveland Today

Victoria Thomas, a 35-year-old fitness enthusiast from Gloucester, UK, experienced cardiac arrest during a routine gym workout. She was technically dead for 17 minutes before paramedics revived her, and she recounts her surreal out-of-body experience during that time. Thomas was later diagnosed with the rare genetic condition Danon disease, which led to further heart complications and ultimately a successful heart transplant in 2023. Her story highlights the importance of immediate CPR and the remarkable determination of both medical professionals and patients.

Why it matters

Victoria Thomas' case challenges our understanding of consciousness during cardiac arrest and demonstrates the critical importance of immediate CPR and rapid emergency response. Her journey from near-death to competitive athlete also underscores the remarkable resilience of the human body and the advancements in medical care that can give patients a second chance at life.

The details

During her cardiac arrest, Victoria Thomas experienced an out-of-body experience where she observed the emergency response from above, noticing specific details like the yellow medical equipment surrounding her motionless body. For 17 minutes, emergency services refused to give up on reviving her, even as her chances of survival diminished with each passing moment without a heartbeat. Doctors later diagnosed Thomas with the rare genetic condition Danon disease, which led to further heart complications and a successful heart transplant in 2023. Despite her ongoing health challenges, Thomas has maintained an active lifestyle, including plans to compete in volleyball and basketball at the World Transplant Games.

  • In April 2023, Victoria Thomas received a heart transplant.
  • In 2021, when Victoria Thomas became pregnant, the strain on her heart intensified, leading to regular cardiac arrests.
  • At 24 weeks pregnant, doctors identified Victoria Thomas' condition as Danon disease, an extremely rare genetic disorder.
  • In 2022, Victoria Thomas' heart function had deteriorated to only 11 percent capacity, typically an indicator of end-stage heart failure.
  • Victoria Thomas collapsed during a routine gym workout in 2026, experiencing cardiac arrest for 17 minutes before being revived by paramedics.

The players

Victoria Thomas

A 35-year-old fitness enthusiast from Gloucester, UK, who experienced cardiac arrest during a routine gym workout and was technically dead for 17 minutes before being revived by paramedics. She was later diagnosed with the rare genetic condition Danon disease and received a successful heart transplant in 2023.

Tommy

Victoria Thomas' son, who was delivered via emergency caesarean at 30 weeks to protect both mother and child as Victoria's heart condition worsened during pregnancy. Comprehensive testing has shown no signs of Danon disease in Tommy, who is now a healthy 3-year-old.

Cleveland Clinic

A leading medical center that provided information about Danon disease, a rare genetic disorder that can damage multiple organs, including the heart muscle, skeletal muscles, retina, and brain tissue.

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What they’re saying

“I was also feeling slightly dizzy. I suddenly collapsed on the floor.”

— Victoria Thomas

“My world went black and there was nothing. Then I became aware of looking down on my body. I was floating near the roof and was looking down at myself on the gym floor.”

— Victoria Thomas

“They never gave up on me. The minutes ticked by, but they refused to stop trying. I was so young, fit and healthy and it had come completely out of the blue.”

— Victoria Thomas

“I went back to playing netball three weeks after it happened, with my defibrillator. It was a shock whenever it went off, but it allowed me to carry on living my normal life, which I was so grateful for.”

— Victoria Thomas

“I asked the doctors how long I had left and they told me I had just another couple of months. It was devastating. All I could think of was Tommy. I vowed I wouldn't leave him.”

— Victoria Thomas

What’s next

Victoria Thomas' case highlights the importance of ongoing medical monitoring and research into rare genetic conditions like Danon disease. As she continues her recovery and prepares to compete in the World Transplant Games, her story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar health challenges.

The takeaway

Victoria Thomas' remarkable journey from near-death to competitive athlete demonstrates the incredible resilience of the human body and the advancements in medical care that can give patients a second chance at life. Her story underscores the critical importance of immediate CPR and rapid emergency response, as well as the need for greater awareness and understanding of rare genetic conditions that can impact heart health.