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Butler University sophomore, former ballerina suffers sudden cardiac arrest

Posted at 7:42 PM, Sep 29, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-29 19:42:06-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- Sophomore Lyla Iannacconeis is undergoing testing for a heart condition discovered last year while she was dancing at Butler University.

Lyla thought she just fainted, but she was shocked twice with an AED and rushed to the emergency room. 

Doctors say she's lucky to be alive.

Every year, more than 350,000 people die from sudden cardiac arrest.

It can happen to anyone, even young athletic teens.

Dr. Michael Emery, a sports cardiologist at IU Health Methodist Hospital, says there are some warning signs to look out for, "Feeling like you're going to pass out with exercise, feeling your heart beat irregularly during exercise, having chest discomfort when you exercise, excessive shortness of breath, if you have a family history of cardiac condition, particularly something that is inherited or genetic."

State law requires all students who play a sport to get a physical. Dr. Emery says to take it seriously and go over the results with your child's doctor.

As for Lyla, her dream of becoming a professional dancer is on hold.

Right now she's focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sharing her story in the hope of saving others.