The Mayo Clinic defines sudden cardiac arrest as the abrupt loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness. The condition usually results from a problem with the rest of the body.

It seems unlikely that on the morning of August 5 at Rochester High School 17-year-old Drew Strasser was the least bit concerned about such a health tragedy.  The senior was at his first Friday morning tennis practice of the season.  Suddenly, a teenage athlete who had shown no signs of what was to come collapsed and wasn’t breathing or responsive.

Drew’s mother, Laneia.

Now, Drew’s on the way back.  In fact, a return to school has already happened. 

Not surprisingly, Laneia says Drew is still recovering.  And, what’s more, they are continuing to search for the cause.

Support from the school and community has been there from the get-go.

Coming up Friday, ahead of the Rochester home football game with Peru, there will be a carry-out hog roast dinner benefit for Drew Strasser.  Proceeds from the free will donation dinner at the RHS parking lot will help with medical and travel costs for Drew’s stay at Riley Hospital for Children.

The dinner is from 4:00 -7:00 pm, or until it’s sold out.