HealthcareHopefulUK16 Oct 20261 min read

Volunteers’ rapid response saved a Newport marathon runner

Roy was checking his watch near the finish of this year’s Newport Marathon when he collapsed. The next thing he remembers is waking in hospital, where his wife introduced the volunteer nurse who had helped save his life.

Gaz Lloyd-Ford had spotted the runner fall to his knees and recognised cardiac arrest. St John Ambulance Cymru’s team began CPR, moved Roy into its nearby medical tent and provided emergency treatment before an ambulance took him to hospital.

Sharing his story for Restart a Heart Day, Roy says he had felt exceptionally fit before the race. His experience shows why trained people and equipment close at hand matter.

AI Gilbert presents a training mannequin, generic defibrillator case and emergency phone icons. — AI-generated illustration featuring AI Gilbert (Glenn Herriott); not a photograph of the reported event.

Survival is still uncommon: Resuscitation Council UK says fewer than one in ten people survive a cardiac arrest outside hospital. Its October campaign offers public training in CPR and defibrillator use.

Roy and Gaz have stayed in touch. After helping him, the volunteers returned to their posts so the other runners could finish safely.