First responder’s fast action reunites family after frightening seizure

A terrifying medical emergency has turned into a heartwarming reunion after a St John WA Community First Responder reached a young girl within minutes of her mother calling Triple Zero (000).

When Shakira suffered a seizure at home, her mother Jessie immediately called for an ambulance.

While a crew was immediately dispatched, the call also activated St John WA’s Community First Responder network, which alerts nearby qualified responders who may be able to reach a patient before an ambulance arrives.

Among those alerted was St John WA Paramedic and Special Operations Manager Deane Coxall.

Just three minutes after the call for help, Deane arrived at the family’s home and began caring for Shakira, providing reassurance to her mother and monitoring the young patient until the ambulance crew arrived a short time later.

Shakira was transported to hospital for further assessment and treatment and has since made a full recovery.

The emotional reunion  served as a powerful reminder of the difference that every minute can make in a medical emergency.

It was captured on film for both local media and Paramedics TV, which will air its first season later this year.

Deane said responding through the Community First Responder network gave him the opportunity to help before the ambulance arrived.

“Medical emergencies are incredibly frightening for families, especially when it’s a child,” he said.

“Being able to get there quickly, assess the situation and reassure Shakira’s mum while waiting for the ambulance was really important.

“Seeing Shakira healthy and smiling again is the best part of the job.”

Shakira’s mother, Jessie, said the experience had been one of the most frightening moments of her life, but praised the app which she said saves lives.

“It truly saves lives,” she said.

“When your child is having a seizure, you feel completely helpless.

” Having someone there who knew exactly what to do made such a difference while we waited for the ambulance.

“We’ll never forget what he did for our family.”

Also at the reunion was St John WA paramedic Dimi Kassiotis, who helped get Shakira to hospital.

“It’s crucial that everyone learns first aid and downloads that app,” Dimi said.

“That’s life-saving stuff right there.”

St John WA’s Community First Responder network connects qualified first aiders and health professionals with nearby medical emergencies, enabling them to provide immediate care before ambulance crews arrive when appropriate.

The network forms an important part of St John WA’s response system, helping deliver life-saving assistance during those critical first minutes of an emergency.