Having experienced a family member choking (and whilst I was heavily pregnant with my third child, Florence in 2021), I know quite how frightening it can feel in the moment, trying to help someone struggling to breathe.
Being able to use my prior first aid training gifted to me by Daisy First Aid meant I could help my relative quickly and efficiently, something the doctor later said, saved their life.
I’ve always felt I was put on this earth to be of service to others if I’m entirely honest (I realise this might sound ludicrous but it’s provided my life with purpose) and there are several occassions including the one above, where I was able to act quickly and respond to others in danger, helping where I can stopping two children from running into the road, once as a teenager in Wales and another in my 30s.
These formative experiences will never leave me.
Had I been a bit braver I might have opted to study medicine. I’m in complete awe of those working in the field. Surely nothing must feel as rewarding. The good news is you don’t need to become a doctor or nurse to know what to do in a crisis.
Thankfully, St John Ambulance’s Save a Life September campaign is here to mobilise us with skills to help others in their time of need.
It aims to teach 500,000 people vital first aid skills this year, helping give people the confidence to act when it really matters.
Understandably, their research revealed that a third of Britons say they worry about their baby choking and not knowing what to do. If that’s you, it’s never too late to learn. Whether you’re a first or fifth-time parent, help is here.
Find out what to do if your baby chokes with this literally life-saving video: sja.org.uk/save-a-
My wise mum (former teacher and lecturer) always says that worrying is futile, and education is key. I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you to St John Ambulance for this important resource.
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