Animal instincts help save a life.

Report by the East of England Ambulance Service

An elderly man who suffered a cardiac arrest at a south Essex veterinary practice is recovering in hospital thanks to the life-saving efforts of staff and Leigh First Responder Steve Hockley.

Steve was at work last Wednesday morning when he was sent to nearby Downes Veterinary Surgeons in Leigh-on-Sea after reports the man, who had brought in his dog to see the vet, had collapsed in the surgery.

Thankfully, the staff on hand were giving very good CPR when Steve arrived just two minutes later and so he was able to get his equipment together swiftly to deliver the first of three shocks needed to bring the patient back.

He said: “The staff were doing a good job and so I asked them to continue CPR while I got the equipment out. “It shows it’s all worthwhile. It’s the second time I’ve managed to bring someone back; it’s a really good feeling to know you played a part in helping their survival.”

Steve was backed up by Brent Sylvester in a rapid response vehicle, and two ambulances with Mark Whiddon, John Claridge and Keith Coleman on board. Southend paramedic Laurie Phillipson, link manager between the ambulance service and the volunteers, praised Steve and the crews’ efforts: “I was really pleased to hear the patient survived—a big well done to them.”

Once the patient has made a full recovery, it is hoped he will be well enough to meet up with Steve and the crews, and the full story will be featured in a future Focus East.