Life savers rewarded

Almost 200 members of ambulance staff from across the West Midlands received awards at a recent ceremony in Stoke.

Staff were recognised for long service and good conduct, educational achievements, retirement and outstanding actions that go above and beyond the call of duty.

For the first time there was a special section for those who have saved the life of a patient who suffered a cardiac arrest. One such patient was Mr David Hill, a local councillor, and avid supporter of the Community First Responder Team in Featherston, who experienced a cardiac arrest while out delivering weekly newsletters.

Volunteer Community First Responders, Kelly Burns and Lisa Parsons were dispatched and arrived on scene two minutes after David's collapse. After performing a primary survey they confirmed Mr Hill to be in cardiac arrest and immediately initiated CPR and airway management.

Shortly after the ambulance crew arrived and continued the resuscitation attempt. David and his wife attended the ceremony to say thank you to everyone involved in saving his life.

Chief Executive Anthony Marsh commented, "Speed is very much of the essence and a real team effort is required if the patient is to be saved. For staff it is one of the most satisfying types of incidents to attend."