"Cardiac Arrest and Angioplasty"

On 17th December 2017 I went upstairs ahead of my partner, luckily she followed a few minutes later and I had her bring my GTN Spray as I was aware I was having a Cardiac issue. After this my mind is blank but I am told I collapsed and Emergency Services were called.

Fortunately, there was a Fire Crew Response Team ahead of my Ambulance passing the house just as they were told that they were no longer required on their original call-out. Within a couple of minutes of their arriving I suffered a full Cardiac Arrest which lasted over 10 minutes, the fire crew kept me alive and repeatedly attempted to restart my heart, which was finally managed, as otherwise I could have died before the Ambulance arrived.

As soon as the Ambulance arrived I was stabilised and put into a Hypothermic condition to limit Brain Damage and driven to Truro where the Operating Theatre Team were already briefed and ready as the Ambulance pulled in. I had a new Stent fitted, as the original had failed causing my arrest, and I was put into an Induced Coma.

My family were warned there was a 50/50 chance I would not recover and even if I did, I had a strong chance of Brain or Heart damage. After 3 days I was awoken and came out of the coma, many patients don't, although I was confused and did react violently and had to be controlled, a not uncommon reaction I am told.

Thanks to the Fire and Ambulance Crew and Hospital Staff I managed to come out of the experience with no brain or heart damage, a month after leaving Hospital I was able to build up to brisk 1 hour walks several times per week.

I would also mention that post-operative aftercare was also to a much higher standard on the Hospital Ward and also after discharge to that I received after my first stent, fitted in a major London Hospital some 13 years ago.

All of the staff I met were helpful, friendly and caring, even those from other Hospital Departments I met whilst recovering and stretching my legs.

It goes without saying that I owe my life and thanks to all of the staff who cared for me and whilst I have already thanked everyone involved it bears repeating again.