Another chance at life thanks to St John WA Event Health Services
When Wayne Carroll collapsed at a weekend boating competition earlier this year, he required emergency treatment, including a shock from an Automated External Defibrillator and a Priority 1 dash to hospital.
He was gravely unwell and, with a history of heart issues, the outlook for the 59-year-old wasn’t great.
Fast-forward two months though, and Wayne has made a full recovery from what was a cardiac arrest and has been reunited with the people who helped to save his life – St John WA Event Health Services team members Nic Pismiris and Nelle Marwood.
Meeting at Maylands Recreation Club, which is the base for Wayne’s dragon boat racing team The Perth Pirates, the reunion included breakfast for the attendees who were delighted to meet each other under more positive circumstances.
Wayne came bearing gifts for Nic and Nelle, and said he was extremely grateful.
“I thanked them for everything they did that day,” he said.
“The CPR, the defib … they brought me back to life.
“I feel fantastic now, and I’m hanging out to get back in the boat.”
EHS Event Manager Riyon Fonseka said it was inspiring to see volunteers and event medics put their training into action and step forward with confidence and skill to help save a life.
“More often than not, they are the very first responders on scene, providing critical care in those early moments when every second counts,” he said.
“Seeing a positive outcome like this is a powerful reminder of how effective training, clear communication, and thoughtful planning come together in real time.
“It highlights not only the professionalism of our team, but also the incredible value they bring to every event they support.”
Last year, St John WA’s EHS teams treated more than 20,000 people at events across Western Australia.
Team members maintain the highest standard of pre-hospital care and, as part of the statewide ambulance service, have access to comprehensive resources and support systems.
Find out more about EHS here.