Country music star Phil Vassar has disclosed that he experienced two life-threatening incidents earlier this year, where he technically “died” before being revived by medical professionals. Vassar, known for his vibrant contributions to country music, endured a heart attack and a stroke that stopped his heart for nearly 30 minutes. Despite doctors giving him no chance of survival, Vassar miraculously recovered, attributing his survival to quick medical intervention and sheer determination.

Vassar’s gripping survival story began with a sudden, life-threatening heart attack followed by a stroke within days in early 2023. “I wasn’t a drinker or a partier,” Vassar explained to Taste of Country. “I worked out every day. I never ate anything fried. It just caught up with me, you know, the genes.”

Vassar’s ordeal took a dramatic turn just three days after his initial heart attack. While hospitalized, he suffered a stroke, leading to an emergency intervention that literally put him on ice. “They shot me straight down to Atlanta. Stroke protocol, all that stuff. So they iced me down,” Vassar recounted.

Despite the chilling treatment, he humorously recalled being puzzled by the cold, unaware that his body temperature was being medically managed. Vassar shared that he has no recollection of the events. “Everybody was asking, ‘Did you go through a tunnel?’ I said, ‘Yeah, I don’t remember anything.'”

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Vassar was at home when the initial heart attack struck. If not for the presence and quick thinking of a companion, the outcome could have been gravely different. “If I hadn’t been with somebody…” he trailed off. The critical moments that followed were a blur of blue lips, frantic CPR, and an urgent 911 call that saved his life. “They had to shock me 11 times and cracked some ribs,” Vassar added.

Vassar made his mark not only as a singer but also as a songwriter, crafting hits for artists like Tim McGraw and Alan Jackson before launching his own performing career. His self-titled debut album in 2000 featured the hit single “Just Another Day in Paradise,” which topped country music charts and solidified his place in the industry.

Phil Vassar live 2008

During the interview, Vassar admitted a newfound appreciation for life and the limitations his body now imposes. “I’m not pounding it like I used to. I think I did 100 shows that one year … the year I croaked. I feel great. I mean, I love singing. I appreciate it more, I can tell you that. We appreciate being here, being alive,” he confessed.

“Thank goodness for medicine. I probably would not have lived a few years ago, but now they can stint you and fix your — I mean, you think you’re doing everything right, and then it all goes wrong, right? It’s just weird that way. But that’s life, I suppose.”

Vassar’s music often blends traditional country with pop elements, making his songs accessible to a broad audience. His lively concerts showcase his charismatic stage presence and musical versatility. Beyond his success on the charts, Vassar is noted for his philanthropic efforts, often participating in charity events and using his music to support causes he believes in.

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