Ambulance service recognition for Ashford youngster

A six-year-old Kent boy has been praised by South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) for his brave actions when his dad suffered a hypoglycaemic collapse at their home in Kingsnorth, near Ashford, Kent.

When John Wesley Primary School pupil, Jake Selfridge, did not get a response from his dad on the morning of 31 March this year, he remembered what he had been taught and immediately went to his aid by phoning 999 and asking for someone to help.

Jake, his dad Kris Selfridge (34), mum Abbey and grandparents, Jim, Jane and Richard visited Ashford Make Ready Centre recently where Jake was presented with a Chief Executive Commendation certificate to thank him for his quick thinking and brave actions.

Jake said: “I know when dad doesn’t respond that something’s wrong with him and that he needs help. I rang 999 and answered all the questions and gave my address.”

Quickly on scene was SECAmb paramedic Andy Blick who was so impressed with Jake’s   calmness that he was determined Jake be praised for his bravery.

Andy said: “Luckily Kris had come round somewhat when I arrived but he was still confused. I said to him straight away that it could have been far more serious for him and Jake’s actions could have saved his life which sounds dramatic but is very true.”

“When I arrived Jake was able to answer all my questions very well and he didn’t appear to be distressed at all. On the contrary, he was concerned that he needed to get to school!  I know there are many adults out there who would struggle to deal with the situation in such a calm manner.”

Jake and his family were given a tour of the Trust’s Ashford Make Ready Centre and Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) base where all vehicles in the region are cleaned, stocked and maintained. HART Team Leader Steve Dowdall was honoured to present Jake with his well-deserved commendation certificate.

Although dad Kris doesn’t remember much of the emergency, luckily on this occasion he was recovered well and didn’t require hospital treatment.  Mum Abbey said: “Kris was diagnosed with diabetes 12 years ago so Jake knows about his condition and he is aware when to call for help. I’m so pleased he did the right thing and we are very proud of him.”

Jake’s grandfather Richard added: “The visit and certificate presentation made a little boy very happy. We want to say a big thank you for all the great work the ambulance service does.”