In heartwarming news, Defib, the cherished station cat of Walthamstow Ambulance Station, has been granted permission to stay at his long-time home after a wave of public support and an overwhelming petition.
The decision to allow Defib, a 16-year-old cat who has been a comforting companion to ambulance staff for over a decade, to stay was reversed following a passionate campaign. The campaign gained huge momentum when a petition to save Defib garnered over 62,000 signatures from supporters around the world.
The initial decision to rehome Defib, citing concerns over staff allergies and the safety of the ageing cat in the busy station environment, sparked outrage from both ambulance workers and the public. Defib has been a source of emotional support for staff at the station, many of whom regularly face challenging and stressful situations on the job.
Following the reversal, the London Ambulance Service (LAS) issued a statement confirming that Defib would be allowed to remain at the station. We have taken the public’s feedback into account and are pleased to announce that Defib will be able to stay at Walthamstow Ambulance Station,” the LAS said.
Supporters are thrilled with the outcome, with many expressing their joy on social media. Defib, who has even inspired his own social media account, will now be able to live out the rest of his days in the only home he’s ever known, surrounded by the staff he has brought comfort to for so many years.
This decision marks a victory for the community that rallied behind their beloved station cat, and a reminder of the power of empathy in even the most unexpected of places.
Daniel Elkeles, Chief Executive of London Ambulance Service, said: “I have heard all the feedback about Defib the cat and I do believe that my team were trying to make the best decision for both Defib and all our staff. I have listened to the views of the public and many of our staff and we have now agreed that Defib can remain at Walthamstow Ambulance Station.
“Defib is much-loved by staff at Walthamstow Ambulance Station and evidently, he has won the hearts of the public too.”
