Barely Breathing to CrossFit Competitor: Randy Schiefer’s ECMO Story
In March 2020, as the pandemic began, Randy Schiefer entered Gulf Breeze Hospital believing he had pneumonia — but fearing something more serious.
Within 24 hours, he tested positive for COVID-19.
He faced the diagnosis alone. Visitor restrictions meant no family, only text messages keeping him connected. As his condition worsened, even that faded. Struggling to breathe and unsure of what lay ahead, Randy was placed in a medically induced coma and intubated.
By March 30, his condition progressed to respiratory failure. Running out of time, he was airlifted to Baptist Hospital in Pensacola and placed on ECMO, a lifesaving therapy to support his lungs as his body fought the virus.
In the days that followed, Randy’s journey reflected both the urgency and uncertainty of early COVID treatment. On April 10 — Good Friday — he received convalescent plasma, offering another critical boost in his fight for survival. Two days later, on Easter Sunday, there was a glimmer of hope: his ECMO support was capped.
Recovery did not come easily.
Randy was extubated on April 19, only to require re-intubation two days later. Finally, on April 27, he came off the ventilator for good. After weeks of battling the virus, he achieved two negative COVID tests on May 1 and May 2.
For five weeks, Randy had not seen his family. Then, at last, a moment occurred that meant everything. His daughter Lisa, a registered nurse, was allowed into his room. She stayed by his side for 72 hours straight. Soon after, his wife, Donna, and the rest of his family were able to visit as well.
On May 8, 2020, Randy was discharged from the hospital — a milestone that once seemed impossible.
After seven weeks confined to a bed, Randy faced the difficult road of rehabilitation. He had to re-learn how to walk. Swallowing and eating required real effort. Step by step, with determination and support, Randy rebuilt his strength.
Amid the uncertainty, moments of compassion from his care team left a lasting mark. Though much of his time on ECMO was spent in a coma, Randy recalls one nurse in particular — Mallory Dehaes, R.N. — she wore a black mask and kept her hair pulled back in a bun. She would gently hold his hand and say, “Mr. Randy, we’re going to have a good day today.”
He recalled those simple words that brought him peace.
“I knew I would be safe for that day,” Randy shared.
Randy credits Dr. Enrique Diaz and the entire ECMO team for their care during an unprecedented and challenging time. He also expressed gratitude to his physical therapist, Dr. Nicole Howes, who motivated him daily during his post-hospital bed recovery, and to the many doctors and nurses who risked their own health to treat patients like him at the height of the pandemic.
Outside the hospital, Randy’s family remained his foundation. His wife of 53 years, Donna, and daughters Erin, Kate and Lisa, were with him through every stage of the journey. He also credits the OneBlood team, who supported his family’s efforts to secure convalescent plasma, playing a vital role in his recovery.
After learning how to walk again and regaining strength, Randy started exercising daily, eventually stepping into CrossFit. Now, he trains and competes.
Randy has participated in the worldwide CrossFit Open, advanced to the semifinals and earned his Level 1 trainer certification. Today, he teaches CrossFit, bootcamp and Hyrox classes, inspiring others with the same determination that carried him through recovery.
“Life after ECMO is great,” Randy said. “The good Lord blessed me with a second chance in life, and I’m taking advantage of it as much as I can.”
Randy Schiefer’s story is one of resilience, faith and renewed life – a journey from isolation and barely breathing to competitive fitness and cherished family.
