Student returns to school after cardiac arrest; district credits staff with lifesaving response

A Williamsville Central School District update said that on May 21 student Ian Tatumi suffered a medical emergency and collapsed during a physical education class at Williamsville South High School. District officials identified Cruz Ramos, Daniel Gerson, PE teachers Ryan Hayes and Travis Denman, and school nurse Sandy Panella as those who immediately began administering CPR and using an automated external defibrillator until emergency medical services arrived. Assistant principal and athletic director Patrick Lester was on the phone with 911 during the incident.

The district said Ian has returned to school and is expected to make a full recovery. In a first-person remark included in the update, Ian Tatumi said, "I don't remember much of my cardiac arrest, but I know that Coach Denman, Mr. Hayes, Miss Panella, Mr. Lester, Daniel, and Cruz saved my life, and I just want to say that I'm very thankful for them, and I'm happy to be here today." The district identified those named in Ian's remarks as the individuals who provided aid.

A district staff member who delivered the update thanked the Williamsville South students and staff for their actions and said the community is "overjoyed that Ian is back at school." The district did not provide medical details beyond saying Ian is expected to make a full recovery.

The update did not announce any formal changes to district emergency policies in response to the incident. Parents and community members were directed to contact building administrators with questions and to follow district communications for any further information.