AN Alveley family has launched an appeal for more first responders to come forward after a volunteer helped save their baby boy’s life.
The family of three-month-old Arthur Howells is urging residents to join the service after seeing first hand the difference it can make – particularly in rural areas.
A fundraising event was held in Alveley Village Hall to thank the first responders, and to raise money for a new wing at the Birmingham Children’s Hospital and for the Midland Air Ambulance.
The charity event was in response to the heart surgery that saved critically ill Arthur in April, when he was airlifted to the specialist children’s unit after suffering breathing problems.
First responder Martin Hill was first on the scene, arriving with specialist equipment and phoning for the air ambulance. The crew contained critical care paramedic Becky and children’s hospital doctor Paul, who only worked for the air ambulance three days a month.
Doctors at the hospital soon diagnosed a cyanotic heart defect. They opened a hole in his heart so blood could circulate better and three days later performed open heart surgery.
Arthur’s grandmother Linda Haynes said: “We wanted to thank the first responders for the time and training they put in, especially Martin – whose quick thinking and subsequent actions helped save our little Arthur.
“Martin will always be our hero and we want people to call 01743 273600 to find out more about becoming a first responder.
“We also wanted to raise money for the air ambulance as it takes about 40 minutes to get to a main hospital from Alveley by road – Arthur would not have made it – so they need all the support they can get.
“Money towards a new wing at the Birmingham Children’s Hospital will increase the number of intensive care beds and help staff perform more complicated operations.”
Due to the generosity of the Alveley Village Hall Committee and various business outlets all ticket money was able to go towards the appeal. With donations received prior to and during the evening the event raise over £1,800
“Our heartfelt thanks to all who helped make the event so special,” said Mrs Haynes.
“And thank you Sainsburys Kidderminster, M&S, the Bridgnorth Co-op and Ian Tristran at the Farm Shop in Quatt, who plated up all the ploughman’s for the evening’s event at a very special price.”
The surgery was a success and today Arthur is a healthy baby boy.
Picture: Arthur Howells in the arms of first responder Martin Hill, who helped to save his life.
