A Maryland mother who lost her teenage son to sudden cardiac arrest is transforming her grief into advocacy, hoping her family’s tragedy will inspire lifesaving action and help others navigate the difficult journey of loss.
Five years after the death of her 16-year-old son, Bailey, Patrice Bullock has released a new book titled 8 Minutes and 45 Seconds, named after the amount of time it reportedly took for her son to receive CPR after collapsing at a track meet.
Speaking in a television interview, Bullock shared the profound meaning the title now holds for her family.
“Eight minutes to me, it’s no longer the time on a clock,” she told WSUA9. “It’s really a timestamp to say more needs to be done.”
Her comments underscore a mission that extends beyond memorializing her son. Bullock hopes her story will raise awareness about the importance of CPR training, emergency preparedness, and rapid response during cardiac emergencies.
According to the report, Bailey suffered sudden cardiac arrest during a track event and did not receive CPR until 8 minutes and 45 seconds after collapsing. Bullock now believes that educating more people about emergency response could help save lives in similar situations.
The book also explores the emotional aftermath of losing a child, offering insight into the grieving process and the ways families can find healing after devastating loss.
“Your inner thoughts, your pain, your emotion—putting those into words can actually help assist with the grieving process,” Bullock said. “It will not take the pain away, but it just makes it a little much more bearable.”
Mental health experts have long noted that journaling, storytelling, and creative expression can help individuals process trauma and grief. Bullock’s book combines personal reflection with advocacy, creating a resource aimed at both bereaved families and those interested in promoting public health awareness.
Her message appears to be resonating with readers. According to the report, 8 Minutes and 45 Seconds became an Amazon bestseller within minutes of going on sale.
While the book chronicles one family’s heartbreaking experience, Bullock hopes it will ultimately serve as a reminder of the critical importance of emergency response education and the difference a few minutes can make during a medical crisis.
For Bullock, those eight minutes are more than a measure of time, they are a call to action.
