Teamwork, action, compassion and perseverance were the clear themes across 17 stories shared last evening at the fifth annual Survivor Day event. Nearly 100 first responders along with four bystanders were recognized with Lightning Bolt Certificates for their role in successfully resuscitating local residents suffering from cardiac arrest in 2018.
Residents like Andrew Maloney, who collapsed at home three weeks before Christmas after experiencing chest pains off-and-on for a few days. Andrew’s daughter Deanna, who had just taken a first aid and CPR course days prior, recognized the magnitude of the emergency and put her new skills to work, starting chest compressions until first responders arrived. Dispatch personnel, firefighters, and paramedics worked together to deliver the urgent care Andrew required, and Andrew was on-hand at last night to connect with those who saved his life.
“This story is an important example of the community links that are so vital to the full chain of care,” indicates Northumberland Paramedics Chief Bill Detlor. “With increasing numbers among the general public trained in CPR, and with the availability of public access defibrillators and the use of defibrillators by first responders, we have increasing instances of lives saved in circumstances where this was previously unimaginable. Survivor Day is a unique opportunity to recognize the dedication and skill of our local first responders, to applaud the bystanders who jump into action in moments of crisis, and to highlight how this type of collaboration is improving health outcomes throughout our community.”
Immediate CPR, in combination with early access to automated defibrillation, may increase the chance of survival for a victim of sudden cardiac arrest by 75% or more. Over 40 public access defibrillators are located in sport and high-traffic facilities throughout Northumberland. With increasing numbers of defibrillators in the community and public commitment to CPR training, everyday citizens are, more and more, becoming part of the emergency response system, which increases the likelihood that first responders can save a life.
“It is important that we take this time to recognize the vital contributions made by our first responders to a strong and vibrant community,” states County Councillor Bob Crate, who addressed event attendees on behalf of County Council. “Emergency services personnel regularly operate in high-pressure situations, and we heard examples here of the great skill, professionalism and compassion they bring to their work. I wanted to extend my sincere congratulations to all Lightning Bolt Certificate recipients—your community thanks you for your service.”
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
