Community award for mum who saved man’s life
A young mum whose quick thinking and first-aid skills saved a man’s life has been recognised for her actions.
Megan James, 21, from Seaham, has been awarded the Chairman’s Medal - the highest accolade Durham County Council can award to individuals and organisations for outstanding contributions in the area.
Megan received her award in recognition of her rapid response and brave actions which saved a man’s life.
The drama happened when she was walking home with her son, Elijah, after shopping in the town in July 2020 and heard cries for help.
A man had collapsed and Megan used first-aid skills she’d learnt on a council-run course for young parents, to perform life-saving CPR on him while a passer-by looked after Elijah.
She gave vital medical help to the man – following the instructions of an ambulance service operator over the phone - whilst waiting for paramedics to arrive.
Megan who had attended the first aid training course in case she needed to help her son in an emergency, said: “I’m very proud to be awarded the Chairman’s Medal. I was in the right place at the right time and I’m so pleased that I was able to help.
"You never expect anything like that to happen, but I hope my story inspires more people to learn CPR and how to do first aid.”
Council chairman Cllr Watts Stelling, said: “Megan’s swift actions saved a man’s life.
"She stayed calm and in control in an emergency, and administered essential medical attention, highlighting the importance of learning vital first-aid skills.
“She fully merits this award.”