On a Wednesday night walk along the West Orange Trail in Winter Garden, Florida, Aaron and Clare Walenga were suddenly struck by lightning. The bolt hit their umbrella, sending both of them face‑down on the trail in severe pain.

Immediate response saves lives

Two fellow trail‑users, Charlotte Sachetti Weyand and Amber McManus, were the first to reach the couple. Weyand called 911 while McManus described the scene: “We are on the West Orange Trail. I think I may need medical assistance.”

Police body‑camera footage shows an officer sprinting to the scene, finding the Walengas unconscious. The officer instructed Aaron, who was alert but unable to move, to stay on his side, acknowledging his pain.

Before first responders arrived, Weyand instinctively began CPR on Clare, who had stopped breathing and turned blue. “I’ve never done CPR before in my life, but in that moment I knew I had to start,” Weyand said.

Medical care and recovery

Both Aaron and Clare were transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center. Aaron suffered facial injuries that are now healing, while Clare experienced a concussion that caused short‑term memory loss. Both are expected to make a full recovery.

In a statement, the couple expressed deep gratitude: “Words cannot adequately express our gratitude to the four good Samaritans, the first responders, and the medical professionals whose actions helped save our lives.” They also noted that they work at Foundation Academy in Winter Garden, where their three children attend school.

Faith and community support

The Walengas said they are leaning on their Christian faith as they heal. “There were so many miracles that we witnessed, from Clare being brought back to life to the four of you being there on that trail at that time,” Aaron said.

Friends and neighbors have rallied around the family, offering meals, prayers, and assistance with childcare. The couple plans to resume their Wednesday night walks on the trail once they are fully recovered, a testament to their resilience and the strong community bonds in Winter Garden.

Safety reminder

Local officials remind residents to monitor weather alerts and avoid open areas during thunderstorms. The incident underscores the importance of quick action and community vigilance when emergencies arise.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.