Michigan State Police Trooper Lucas Lahnala of the Calumet post talks this week with Rosie Danley, the woman whose life he helped save. Danley, a nurse by trade, suffered sudden cardiac arrest in August at a Hancock-area camp. Lahnala, who responded and administered immediate first aid, is credited with helping save Danley's life. (Photo courtesy of the MSP)

HOUGHTON — What began as a medical emergency in August turned into a heartwarming reunion Thursday when Michigan State Police Trooper Lucas Lahnala of the Calumet post met with Rosie Danley, the woman whose life he helped save.

According to state police-provided information, while camping in a Hancock area campground this past August, Danley experienced sudden cardiac arrest and became unresponsive. Lahnala was on duty that night and quickly responded. Once he arrived on scene, he found Danley unresponsive, and her son had started to administer care.

Lahnala immediately began cardio pulmonary resuscitation and connected her to an AED. After several minutes of life-saving efforts, EMS arrived, assumed care and transported Danley for further treatment. While her pulse had been regained, the outlook for her survival at first was not favorable. However, since then, Rosie has recovered and is even back to work as a nurse, helping to care for others.

Lahnala said he was thankful to have been able to help that evening. “I’m really happy I was able to be involved and help,” he said. “As troopers, we respond to emergencies every day, but moments like this remind us why we do what we do. Seeing Rosie healthy and smiling means everything.”

Danley shared her appreciation for everyone who played a part in her survival. “On behalf of myself, husband, four kids and 13 grandkids, I would like to thank Trooper Lahnala for being one of my heros to save my life,” she said. “He was a godsend in my life on Aug 5, 2025. God had a plan and he is part of my miracle story. May God bless and watch over him every day.”

Calumet post commander, First Lieut. Jason Wickstrom, commended Lahnala for his actions.

“I’m very proud of Trooper Lahnala and the actions he took to help save Mrs. Danley’s life. It’s an example of the great work that not only the troopers at the Calumet post do, but all law enforcement do on a daily basis. It’s very rewarding when we can share a story that has such a positive outcome and meet the people we have helped.”