A toddler who stopped breathing at 16 weeks old has been reunited with the ambulance team who helped to save her life, just months before she starts primary school.

Now three-year-old Nancy, from Deal, visited Thanet Make Ready Centre on Monday, 22 September with her mum, Louise, to thank Advanced Paramedic Practitioner Rachel, Paramedic Killian and Dispatch Team Leader Tyler, who all rushed to her aid back in April 2022.

At just 16 weeks old, Nancy, who was born prematurely at 26 weeks, was taken to her GP surgery by her mum after developing a cough, irregular heartbeat and a chest infection.

The GP immediately dialled 999 and began CPR after Nancy stopped responding in the surgery. Within minutes, Dispatch Team Leader, Tyler had coordinated multiple SECAmb crews who confirmed Nancy was in respiratory arrest which is a life-threatening emergency in which breathing stops, but the heart continues beating.

The team quickly stabilised her before she was taken to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate, followed by various stays at the Evelina London Children’s Hospital where she began a long journey to recovery.

Now full of energy and excitement for school, Nancy’s visit gave her family the chance to say thank you in person. Mum, Louise is now using her experience to make other parents more aware of the signs of serious illness in babies and the importance of acting quickly.

Louise said "After such a long road to recovery it was amazing seeing the team again. We will never forget what they did for Nancy, she really is my little miracle. To give back, I attend the annual members meetings of local NHS organisations to share our story.”

Rachel, who was among the first on scene, said the reunion was just as special for the crew, "We rarely find out the outcomes of our patients, so meeting Nancy and Louise again was incredible. She’s come such a long way and it’s moments like this that stay with you for a long time.”

Killian said: “It’s amazing to see Nancy three years on and about to start primary school. I’m really proud to have played a part in her recovery and wish her and her family the best.”

Tyler said “I’m really grateful to Louise and Nancy for coming to visit us and to hear more about her story. It means a lot to us as a team.”