On a sunny March afternoon, Boy Scout Troop 1916 set out on a bike ride near Laurel Hill Park in Lorton, Virginia. What began as a joyful outing—stopping to admire the old Lorton Reformatory and snap photos—turned frightening when 59-year-old troop leader Laurent Lee collapsed while checking his son’s bike chain, going into cardiac arrest.
In an instant, the troop and parents sprang into action. Lee’s son, Davin, watched in shock as fellow Scouts and leaders, many freshly trained in CPR, worked with calm precision. Thirteen-year-old Raphael began chest compressions, leaders rotated to maintain aid, and Nori’s son Avi comforted Davin. With guidance from 911 dispatchers, they kept Lee alive until EMTs arrived, and miraculously, he was breathing and had a pulse.
After several days in the hospital, including time in the ICU, Laurent made a full recovery. He credits the Scouts’ quick action, the proximity to a road, wearing a helmet, and the skill of first responders and hospital staff. His son now calls him “Dad 2.0.” Six months later, the troop returned to the park, and Laurent reflected on the bond forged that day, thanking the Scouts and leaders he calls his guardian angels.
The experience left Laurent committed to health and preparedness. After doctors revealed a 90% arterial blockage, he urges others to stay on top of their health and plans to get CPR certified himself, ready to pay forward the life-saving support he once received. That day on the trails became more than a bike ride—it became a story of courage, teamwork, and a community ready to act in a moment of need.