Do you know how to help save a life?

This year, on World Restart a Heart Day (RSHD) 16 October 2024, we are thrilled that the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service (IWAS) will be teaching hundreds of children lifesaving skills at various fire stations across the island.

IWAS tutors, volunteer community first responders (CFRs) and fire service staff are set to deliver yet another successful RSHD to the Isle of Wight community.

In the event of a cardiac arrest, every second counts. That is why it’s vital for the community to know how to recognise cardiac arrest, call for an ambulance, start Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and if available fetch the nearest defibrillator.

Louise Walker KAM, Ambulance Head of Education and Community Response, said: “I am enormously grateful to all the tutors and CFRs who are helping to deliver the training sessions and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service for accommodating us. Thanks to everyone working together we can provide this amazing event. We look forward to welcoming hundreds of children from many schools across the island and teaching them lifesaving skills.

“As an ambulance service we recognise the importance of supporting those who help others during a cardiac arrest and those who may be affected by the event. For some time now we have been offering debriefing, reunion opportunities for patients and rescuers, and support for those following a cardiac arrest, all of which can make such a difference to people.”

Island resident, Gwen Woodgate, whose husband suffered a cardiac arrest, said: “After my husband’s cardiac arrest, I didn’t know where to turn. I didn’t know anyone who had gone through the same experience, and with only 2 hours a day to visit him, I had no one to talk to or ask my many questions.

“I found a Facebook group that helped me to some extent, but it felt faceless, and I couldn’t fully express my feelings. Then Louise invited me to join the Ambulance Service Life After Cardiac Arrest support group. These were my people - I had found my tribe! We talked about everything, especially cardiac issues, and I knew they truly understood me. As time goes on, I’m coping better, but I know the other group members are always there with a gentle hug, empathy, advice, or simply to listen. When post cardiac arrest services are limited or non-existent, every area should have a Life After Cardiac Arrest support group.”

Jeff Walls, Group Commander, for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS), said: “As an emergency service, we recognise the life-saving impact that early intervention with CPR can have. The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service provides amazing support to our Island community by teaching this life-saving skill. HIWFRS is proud to host IWAS personnel for the training of over 800 young people this Restart a Heart Day at local fire stations.”