An Ashford woman who suffered multiple organ failure and is lucky to be alive was reunited with the team who helped her recently.
Married for 50 years to husband Richard, Susan’s (72) chance of survival was as low as 30 per cent – a harrowingly low statistic when four or more organs fail.
Susan had been struggling with severe abdominal pain and exhaustion for days when her husband, Richard, grew increasingly concerned. With the support of their neighbour, he made the decision to dial 999 on 20 November 2024.
His call was answered by Emergency Medical Advisor Laura Sale, who triaged the call while Resource Dispatcher Sarah Weller coordinated a team of four clinicians to attend the couple’s home.
Once on scene, SECAmb crews assessed Susan’s symptoms before transporting her to William Harvey Hospital, where tests confirmed she was experiencing multiple organ failure. She spent four days in critical care before returning home to Richard.
Now recovering well, Susan and Richard recently visited the Trust’s Ashford Make Ready Centre to personally thank student paramedic Inese Rozina and Emergency Medical Advisor Laura Sale for their care that day.
“I don’t remember anything from that day, and so it was amazing to be able to meet some of the team who helped me and understand more about what happened.” Said Susan.
“They took control of the situation instantly, putting both Susan and me at ease,” Richard said. “If I had a gold watch, I would have given it to them for what they did for us.”
Laura said: “It was fantastic to reunite with Susan and Richard. They are a lovely couple, and I’m so happy I was able to answer their call and get help to them.”
Inese added: “I was over the moon to hear that Susan had recovered well and wanted to meet. It’s fascinating to hear about her diagnosis, and I’m so glad my colleagues and I were able to help her.”