Exactly one year on from a near-fatal abdominal aortic aneurysm, a Kent grandfather has been reunited with the ambulance clinicians who got him to surgery just in time.
David, now 80, from Whitstable, was getting ready to leave for his surprise 80th birthday party on 10 January 2025 when he suddenly became unwell at home. The celebration had been secretly arranged by his daughter, Donna and son, Christopher, with old friends travelling from across Europe and Wales to attend.
Shortly before leaving, David began experiencing back pain, was struggling to breathe and developed one-sided weakness. His grandson, Kai immediately called 999 and spoke to Emergency Medical Advisor Natasha, who categorised the call as a Category 2 emergency.
Resource Dispatcher, Ella coordinated the response, sending paramedics, Richard and Sam alongside Student Paramedic, Fantasia to David’s home. Although initial observations were within normal ranges, the crew were uneasy about David’s overall presentation and made the decision to convey him urgently to Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother (QEQM) Hospital in Margate.
A scan of David’s heart revealed he had a major abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) which is a potentially life-threatening bulge in the aorta, the body’s main artery. AAAs are most common in older men, smokers and are often symptomless until rupture.
Recognising the immediate danger, the crew blue-lighted David to Kent and Canterbury Hospital which is the specialist hospital for this condition. While on the operating table, David’s aorta ruptured, confirming just how close he came to losing his life. David went on to spend 10 days in intensive care and a further 10 weeks in hospital recovering from major surgery before being discharged home.
Exactly one year later, David returned with Donna, Christopher and Kai to Ashford Make Ready Centre to reunite with Richard, Sam and Fantasia and thank them personally for being a part of his life-saving care. He is now looking forward to celebrating his 81st birthday later this month.
David said: “I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for them. They trusted their instincts and acted fast. Thanks to them, I get more time with my family.”
Paramedic Richard added: “AAA cases don’t always present clearly but something didn’t sit right. The three of us have thought a lot about David since that day and seeing him a year on and doing well makes everything we do worthwhile.”