A quick-thinking paramedic helped save a fellow fan’s life after a cardiac arrest on a train, showcasing the importance of CPR training.
London: On December 19, paramedic Stefan Soler was heading home after a match when he heard someone calling for help on the train.
He found 68-year-old Keith Calnon from Rochester, Kent, slumped in his seat. With a police officer’s help, Stefan quickly laid him on the floor to check his condition.
It turned out Keith was in cardiac arrest. Without wasting a second, Stefan started CPR and directed other passengers to assist.
He called for an ambulance, asked someone to alert the platform staff to stop the train, and requested the station’s defibrillator.
After two shocks, Keith regained consciousness, though he was understandably confused and agitated.
Luckily, more paramedics from the London Ambulance Service arrived at Tottenham Hale station just minutes later.
Stefan reflected on the experience, saying it was a unique moment, especially during the holiday season when families come together.
This incident reminded him of when he witnessed his grandfather have a heart attack, which inspired him to become a paramedic.
He recalled how he called for help back then, and how the ambulance crew saved his grandpa, giving him another 20 years of life.
Now, he felt it was incredible to be in a position to save someone else, calling it a very emotional experience.
Keith’s daughters, Amy and Kathryn, met Stefan and incident response officer Peter Fisher at the London Ambulance Service headquarters in Waterloo.
Unfortunately, Keith couldn’t join them as he was still recovering from heart surgery.
Amy expressed how grateful they were to Stefan, the off-duty police officer, and the other emergency responders who helped save their dad’s life.
The sisters stressed how crucial it is for everyone to learn CPR.
Kathryn mentioned that even her young daughters were talking about how to perform CPR, showing the importance of this life-saving skill.
Peter Fisher emphasized the “chain of survival” in emergencies, highlighting how quick action can lead to successful outcomes.
The meeting between the family and Stefan was arranged after a post on the Tottenham Hotspur Facebook page went viral, catching the attention of many fans.
Pauline Cranmer, chief paramedic at London Ambulance Service, praised Stefan’s actions, noting that paramedics are always ready to help, even off-duty.
She also encouraged everyone to learn CPR, as early intervention can significantly increase survival chances in emergencies.
