A man has returned to the scene of a life-threatening medical emergency to thank the people who saved his life.
Mike Taylor, 56, from Wareham, suffered a cardiac arrest on December 17 while taking part in a football match at Purbeck Sports Centre alongside his son and other players and parents from Bere Regis U13 FC.
Andy Mott, manager of the opposing team Wool and Winfrith U13, and Terry Evans, manager of Bere Regis, immediately rushed to help. After realising Mike’s heart had stopped, they began CPR.
Mike said: “I am grateful to be alive. I am incredibly lucky to still be here today, and I am so thankful to Andy, Terry and the Sports Centre staff for their quick-thinking actions.”
As CPR continued, Bere Regis coaches and parents stepped in to support the young players, contact emergency services and alert Sports Centre staff.
The operations manager on duty sent qualified lifeguard Angus Macbeth and duty manager Callum Way to the scene with a defibrillator. Using the device, the team were able to restart Mike’s heart while awaiting paramedics.
Mike spent eight days in hospital, including two days in a coma, before returning home on Christmas Day to reunite with his family for what they described as an unforgettable celebration.
He said: “I was extremely fortunate that my cardiac arrest happened at a Sports Centre where a defibrillator was immediately available and staff were well trained. Sadly, many people are not so lucky.”
Mike has since spoken with Alison and Simon Colvin from Wareham, who lost their 13-year-old son Shaun following a cardiac arrest last year. The couple are now fundraising to install public defibrillators across Wareham and Sandford in his memory.
“They understand just how vital accessible defibrillators are,” Mike added. “I will be supporting their campaign and encourage others to donate to this incredibly worthwhile cause, which is a fitting tribute to Shaun and all he achieved in his short life.”