Woman who ‘died for 17 minutes’ during gym session details exactly what she saw before being resuscitated.

After a routine boot camp session at the gym, 35-year-old Victoria Thomas, a fit and active accountant from Gloucester, UK, suddenly felt her energy vanish. “It was like everything drained out of me,” she recalled. Moments later, she told her friend she was feeling dizzy—then collapsed on the floor.

Unbeknownst to her, Victoria had gone into cardiac arrest. Paramedics rushed in and began CPR, fighting to bring her back. Her heart had stopped beating for 17 minutes.

But what she remembers during that time is astonishing.

Victoria had to have a heart transplant (Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce)

“Everything went black—and then I was suddenly floating,” she said. “I could see myself on the floor from near the ceiling. I didn’t see a light or feel peace—just watched. There were yellow machines around me.”

Miraculously, medics brought her back to life, and she spent three days in a coma. Doctors later fitted her with an implantable defibrillator, a life-saving device that would later kick-start her heart several times over the coming months.

Despite no family history of heart problems, Victoria pushed forward with life. She was back playing netball just three weeks later, defibrillator in place. “It was a shock when it went off,” she admitted, “but it meant I could still live my life.”

A Rare Diagnosis Changes Everything

Her heart had stopped for 17 minutes (Getty Images)

In 2021, during pregnancy with her son Tommy, her condition worsened. She suffered frequent cardiac arrests and was finally diagnosed with Danon disease—a rare genetic disorder affecting the heart, muscles, and brain. You can learn more about Danon disease via the Cleveland Clinic.

Doctors performed an emergency C-section at 30 weeks, delivering baby Tommy safely. But Victoria’s own heart was deteriorating—functioning at just 11%. “They told me I had only a couple of months left,” she shared. “All I could think about was Tommy.”

A Second Chance at Life

In April 2023, Victoria received a life-saving heart transplant. Now 41, she’s thriving—and even plans to compete in volleyball and basketball at the World Transplant Games in Germany. Learn more about the World Transplant Games here.

As for Tommy? He’s been tested and shows no signs of Danon disease.

“I’ve been given a second chance—not just at life, but at being a mum,” Victoria says. “It’s the greatest gift I could ever have asked for.”

Final Thoughts

Victoria’s story is a powerful reminder that life is unpredictable—but also incredibly resilient. From a near-death experience to motherhood, from heart failure to international sports, she’s a living example of strength, science, and hope.

If you or someone you know is living with a heart condition, check out the British Heart Foundation for resources and support.