The wrestling world lost an icon this morning. Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea, a household name and legendary figure in professional wrestling, passed away at 71. According to initial reports, emergency responders were called to Hogan’s Clearwater Beach home for a cardiac arrest. He was transported to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
While the full details are still emerging, what we do know is this: sudden cardiac arrest doesn’t discriminate. It can strike anyone, anywhere, even in the comfort of your own home.
A Reminder That Cardiac Arrest Can Happen to Anyone
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is not the same as a heart attack. It happens when the heart unexpectedly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Without immediate intervention—especially CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED)—SCA is almost always fatal.
It’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States, claiming more than 350,000 lives each year outside of hospitals. And around 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home.
That’s what makes this moment so important.
What Could Make a Difference? Speed and Access
When someone goes into cardiac arrest, every minute without defibrillation decreases their chances of survival by 7–10%. Emergency services do everything they can, but the reality is that by the time they arrive, it’s often too late. Currently, the average response time for an ambulance is 7-8 minutes. Florida ranks among the states with the fastest response rate at an average of 8.47 minutes.
Having an AED nearby can be the difference between life and death, especially at home. These devices are designed for anyone to use, with built-in voice prompts and instructions that walk you through what to do. In a crisis, they give everyday people the power to act.
A Wake-Up Call for Preparedness at Home
Hogan's death is a heartbreaking reminder that we can’t always predict when an emergency will happen, but we can be prepared for one. Whether you live with someone with heart issues or simply want to be ready, having an AED in your home can be a life-saving step.
No One Should Die Waiting for Help
Our hearts go out to Hulk Hogan’s family, friends, and fans around the world. He was larger than life, and his passing leaves a lasting void.
But let it also serve as a powerful reminder: if cardiac arrest can take someone as strong and seemingly invincible as Hulk Hogan, it can happen to anyone. Let’s honor his legacy by spreading awareness, learning CPR, and making AEDs more accessible where they’re most needed, including our own homes.