Pensioner Reunites with Ambulance Crew Who Saved His Life After Cardiac Arrest

Last year, a man who had a cardiac arrest at his home in Morecambe was finally able to express his gratitude to the emergency responders who saved him.

The 78-year-old Alan Tierney became unwell last March; however, due to rapid intervention from his relatives, neighbors, and emergency responders, he managed to pull through. He believes this experience has granted him additional cherished moments with his loved ones.

Alan, along with his spouse Marie and their daughter Lisa, received an invitation to visit the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) Lancashire headquarters located in Broughten. During this meeting, they had the opportunity to connect with paramedics Martyn, Bartlomiej, and Holly, as well as emergency medical technician Rachael—each of these professionals played a role in responding during the emergency situation.

Alan’s daughter Lisa recounted the incident, stating: "My mum and dad were taking care of my children post-school. I was just there to collect them when we arrived at the hallway. My father suddenly clutched the radiator; we soon realised something was wrong as he stopped breathing. After helping him onto the ground, I immediately called 999."

The emergency call handler guided me on performing chest compressions until my neighbour relieved me; shortly after, an ambulance arrived within seven minutes. The paramedics then continued their efforts, so we stepped aside.

“The crew gave him five shocks, and it looked like they would stop. We thought he had passed away, when suddenly one of them said they could feel a faint pulse. And then it was, ‘let’s go again’. It was a huge relief and part of a rollercoaster of emotions.”

Alan stated: "I'm extremely thankful for still being around, able to share valuable moments with my loved ones."

I am a parent to three kids and a grandparent to seven little ones. Last summer was filled with gatherings as they all came around. We enjoyed several family barbecues, my son traveled here from Abu Dhabi along with his family, we shared Christmas time with my relatives, and most recently, we threw a party for Marie’s 80th birthday celebration.

I'm immensely thankful for the time I've been granted, and owe much of this gratitude to the people and medical professionals who supported me.

I have no recollection of the incident, which I believe is likely for the best.

It seems that I was aware during the journey in the ambulance, and I remained in the hospital for about two weeks before they allowed me to return home.

I've regained sufficient strength to become active once more. Now, I can leave the house, go on the bus to Lancaster with my spouse, and enjoy brief strolls.

I've unfortunately received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease since then. Hence, I’m also dealing with that nowadays!

Gene Quinn, who leads Lancashire and Cumbria operations, stated: "This situation exemplifies how our role starts from the moment the 999 call is received, with the aim of saving a patient's life."

Starting with the call handler guiding CPR, collecting patient details, and offering comfort via telephone, followed by our dispatchers ensuring rapid response from teams, the skill of practitioners at the location, along with all those supporting discreetly in the background.

I am confident that my colleagues will benefit greatly from this reunion. Frequently, they do not learn about the outcomes for their patients once they are transferred within the hospital setting; thus, coming together under far more pleasant conditions is always enjoyable.