Single mother in California survives heart attack and coma

Updated
Single Mother in California Survives Heart Attack and Coma
Single Mother in California Survives Heart Attack and Coma


"What were the doctor's first words to you?" a reporter for KGTV asked Jessica Hoover.

"You died. You shouldn't have lived," Hoover said.

It's a survival story with multiple miracles. Jessica Hoover collapsed while jogging in California on Dec 1. Doctors say a virus, possibly from a recent case of pneumonia, caused a heart attack for the 37-year-old.

KGTV report Hoover's heart had stopped beating for five minutes before a man performed chest compressions. That man was David Raasch.

"I think he's my hero," Hoover told KGTV.

Even with her heart beating again, Hoover remained in a coma. Doctors feared if she ever woke up, she'd have severe brain damage from the lack of oxygen.

Five days later, to the doctors' astonishment, she started talking.

"And I probably wouldn't have the will to survive if I wasn't the sole provider for my kids," Hoover told KGTV.

After seven months, her heart is still too weak for her to work.

She said it's "gut-wrenching" not being able to provide for her four children. Until her strength returns, a GoFundMe page is collecting donations for her and her family.

Hoover still has high spirits, though, and is putting things in perspective. She told KGTV: "I'm grateful for every day because I shouldn't have woken up. Every day is a gift."

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