Bus Driver Honoured for Saving Former Mayor's Life
Debbie Russell, a bus driver and former nurse, has been recognised for her quick thinking when she resuscitated Bill Randall, a former Brighton and Hove mayor, during a cardiac arrest.
Quick-thinking response saves life
A bus driver has been awarded for her swift action in saving the life of Bill Randall, 83, a former mayor of Brighton and Hove, after he suffered a cardiac arrest. The incident took place in June at a bus stop in South Coast Road, Telscombe Cliffs, when Mr Randall collapsed into nettles while waiting for a bus.
Debbie Russell, a former nurse, was working as a bus driver when she spotted members of the public gathered at the scene. She brought her vehicle to a safe stop and, with help from another motorist, pulled Mr Randall from the bushes. Recognising the signs of cardiac arrest, she immediately began cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and continued for 10 to 15 minutes until ambulance crews arrived.
Mr Randall was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where he received three defibrillator shocks.
Award recognised at ceremony
Ms Russell was presented with the Honouring Public Service award at a South East Coast Ambulance Service ceremony at the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne on 22 October. Secamb chief executive Jennifer Allan presented the commendation.
Josh Tonks, head of operations for Secamb in Brighton, Hove and Mid Sussex, attended the original incident. He said: "Debra did everything right in those critical early moments. Through her calm approach and determination to act when every second counted, she made an extraordinary difference."
Secamb noted in a statement: "Debra's recognition reflects the importance of people being prepared to act in an emergency. Her willingness to step forward and provide life-saving care before the arrival of ambulance crews helped save a life and highlights the difference that early intervention can make."
Recovery and gratitude
Mr Randall, who was the first Green leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, was reunited with Ms Russell at the awards ceremony. He has since written about the incident and credited the hospital staff for their care, but emphasised that the outcome depended on Ms Russell's intervention.
Ms Russell said of her actions: "Seeing someone in distress, you don't stop to think. You just help. I'm so thankful Bill is recovering well and grateful to everyone who came together to help."
Source: read the full story