HOUSTON, Texas – At 6′1″ and a powerhouse on the volleyball court, Julieta Valdes was a shining star at The Woodlands High School, ranked 18th in the nation, and a top collegiate prospect.

Volleyball was her life, day and night, on the court and even on the beach; it was volleyball constantly.

“It was 24-7 volleyball all the time,” her mother, Patricia, said.

‘We would never have known’: Heart testing saves Houston teen

But then, without warning, everything changed.

In the middle of a workout at home, Julieta suddenly collapsed. She suffered sudden cardiac arrest, a terrifying moment when her heart stopped beating.

“My hands were clenched, my muscles contracted, my eyes open, gasping for air,” Julieta said.

Paramedics and firefighters rushed to her aid, working for 24 minutes befor

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