Miami John Cernuto This Year’s WSOP Inspiration Story

John Cernuto was playing in one of the events leading up to the 2009 World Series Main Event when he literally went unconscious. 

He collapsed during Event #44 ($2,500 Razz) of an apparent heart attack, initial reports suggested, and was taken out by medics on a stretcher.  He awoke on the way out and even found enough strength to use his cell phone.

A few days later, he was released from the hospital and appeared back at the WSOP where he managed to win a cool $23,000 plus.

The good news at the time of publication is that Cernuto appeared in good health and also maintained a solid chip count at the main event.

"I'm still a little woozy," Cernuto told Casino City Press, who confirmed he had suffered from internal bleeding. "You know, it wasn't scary at the time, but now looking back, yes, it was a scary moment. I'm just glad to be back on my feet."

Cernuto wasn't sure if he would be playing in the main event, but now he's probably glad he took part... at least for the time being.