The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Award for quick thinking Sarah Jane
IT’S the kind of honour one never expects to receive: an award for helping to save someone’s life. But during a game of camogie in Limerick between Toornafulla and Newcastle West back in October 2016, Sarah Jane Joy from Killorglin came to the assistance of fellow player, Michelle Herbert when she suddenly collapsed.
Sarah Jane was quick off the mark and, together with other volunteers, rushed to Michelle’s aid with a defibrillator and was able to ensure Michelle was cared for until emergency services arrived. The incident not only highlighted the importance of having defibrillators installed in every community, but also the consideration of people and the contribution they can make.
Fast forward an evening in Croke Park recently and the Camogie Association Volunteer and Media Awards where Sarah Jane received her Special Merit Award in recognition of her quick thinking that day in Limerick. Thankfully, Michelle is on the road to a full recovery.
Sarah Jane is a Limerick based nurse and, following the incident, she called for all GAA clubs to purchase AEDs and train people in their use. Speaking about the incident at the time to The Kerryman, Sarah Jane explained:
“Luckily where we were playing they had a defibrillator and I continued CPR with the machine. She (Michelle) must have been shocked six to eight times. The machine analyses the patient at the same time and directs if a shock is required or not, but when we heard it say ‘no shock advised’ and I checked to find her pulse back it was just unbelievable,” she said.