Lakers hockey player steps up to save a life

Jonathan Rees didn’t wake up expecting to be a hero. For this Lakers summer student working with the City of North Bay’s parks department, most of his days are predictable: cut grass, maintain trails, keep things running smoothly. But when crisis interrupted a regular day on the job, Rees didn’t falter, he stepped in.

With no dramatic build-up and only basic CPR knowledge to draw from, the Nipissing University student-athlete recognized someone in trouble and responded instantly. “I realized something was wrong when I saw the man being shaken by a woman with him,” Rees said.

When Rees noticed the unresponsive individual, he immediately called 911, followed the dispatcher’s instructions, and began chest compressions. Calmly. Quietly. Effectively. And when paramedics arrived and took over, the man regained consciousness.

For Rees, that outcome alone was enough. “After I learned that my actions helped save his life, it was very humbling,” he said. “I’m just grateful the first responders showed up so quickly and that everything ended positively.”

In the days since, friends, teammates, and community members have reached out to express admiration and gratitude. However, Rees is quick to shift the focus. “I truly believe it was just the right thing to do,” he said. “Some of the responses have been really encouraging, and I appreciate that, but to me, helping one another is just what we’re supposed to do.”

That sense of quiet leadership didn’t come out of nowhere. Rees credits his time at Nipissing – both in the classroom and in the rink – with shaping who he is off the ice. “Every positive and negative experience has had an impact,” he said. “Being on a team has allowed me to meet so many different people from all sorts of backgrounds. I’ve learned a lot about who I am.”

He’s not looking for a spotlight. But for anyone who hears his story, Rees hopes it serves a reminder that readiness matters and that compassion is powerful. “You never know when something can go wrong,” he said. “It’s important to act quickly and stay level-headed.”

A strong character is built slowly, through early mornings, shared insights, small decisions, and everyday work. And sometimes, in a single moment, it’s revealed.

Media Contact:

Khia Beauchesne
Communications Officer
Nipissing University
705-474-3450 ext. 4035
communications@nipissingu.ca