In a recent heart-stopping incident in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, 15-year-old Sheng Xuluo sprang into action, performing 11 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until emergency medical personnel arrived.

Recalling the intense moment, Sheng said his immediate focus was on saving the individual without hesitation. It was his first real-life CPR intervention.

On the evening of July 5, a young man collapsed while playing basketball. Sheng noticed the boy's sudden collapse and, observing the boy's symptoms, recognized the telltale signs of cardiac arrest. Checking for a pulse by feeling the boy's carotid and radial arteries, he confirmed the absence of a viable heartbeat.

"I didn't hesitate. It was an instinctive reaction," Sheng said. Then he knelt down and began administering CPR. After a set of compressions, he directed Xu Deli, a neighbor who had participated in emergency response training, to administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, forming an effective rescue partnership. Their efforts continued until the emergency medical personnel arrived 11 minutes later to take over the life-saving measures.

"It was incredibly tense, and it was remarkable to see such bravery from a 15-year-old kid like Sheng," said Xu, who was the first to turn the boy over and open his airway.

Sheng and Xu's prompt actions bought crucial time for medical intervention. The patient was rushed to the hospital and, at last report, his vital signs were temporarily stable while undergoing further treatment.

Sheng's comprehensive rescue procedure was a testament to his mother Xu Jinmei's teachings.

Xu Jinmei, deputy director of the academic affairs office at Ningbo College of Health Sciences and head of the college's first aid club, has been involved in first aid training for 21 years. Her team has collaborated with several schools and communities to establish emergency response volunteer service bases, empowering students and residents with life-saving knowledge. Xu always brings Sheng along as a volunteer during her training sessions.

"CPR is a highly specialized skill that requires not only technical proficiency but also immense courage and conviction. I’m proud of his bravery in saving a life," Xu said.