The previous county hurler stated the expertise highlighted simply how important CPR coaching and entry to defibrillators could be.
“I am proof that it’s life-saving,” Keith instructed BBC Sport NI.
“If the lads weren’t within the fitness center with me that morning and there wasn’t a defib shut by, I would not be sitting right here speaking to you as we speak. That is 100% true.”
Docs later found one in all his predominant coronary arteries was blocked and inserted a stent. He has additionally had an implantable defibrillator fitted as a precaution.
Whereas he has now been cleared to return to coaching and fitness center work, Keith, who was a goalkeeper for Down, believes his taking part in days are over.
“I’ve had a great profession and a great run.
“I performed county hurling up till final season and I hoped to present one other 12 months to my membership Ballycran. However personally, going ahead, I do not assume I’ll play once more. I do not assume it could be honest placing my spouse and household via that.”
The daddy of two says the incident has given him a brand new outlook on life.
“I’ve a five-year-old and a three-year-old at house. I simply assume to myself how fortunate I’m to have one other likelihood right here. I may have been useless, gone, and nonetheless had a spouse and two younger children there.”
Now, he hopes sharing his story will encourage others to study CPR and help the availability of defibrillators.
“The principle purpose I am telling this story is that CPR coaching saves lives.
“Communities, sports activities golf equipment and organisations want defibs they usually want to ensure they’re working – it saved my life.”