A teenager’s first-aid training helped a stranger survive

A Nottinghamshire family has thanked a 15-year-old whose cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training helped a man survive a cardiac arrest. The family told the BBC he is making a steady recovery.

Ethan, from Mansfield Woodhouse, had taken an East Midlands Ambulance Service course last year. On 18 September, he found a 75-year-old collapsed on Ley Lane and began chest compressions while another passer-by called 999.

An off-duty carer and a teacher joined him, taking turns until paramedics arrived. The rescue involved several people, and the man remains in recovery.

Ethan had bought three practice manikins to share his skills and has already taught local scout groups. That turns one teenager’s interest in becoming a paramedic into something others can learn.

For people unsure where to start, Resuscitation Council UK offers free Lifesaver training, using interactive filmed scenarios on a phone or computer. Ethan’s experience shows what learning beforehand can make possible when someone nearby needs help.

Sources

• BBC News — My dream of being a paramedic helped me save a life at 15
• Resuscitation Council UK — Lifesaver learning