Peter O’Donnell, 68, was saved from a potentially fatal cardiac arrest in Chatham due to the swift response of a Special Constable and his family. On Friday, 23 August 2024, while visiting his sister Annie and niece Shannon, Peter suddenly collapsed.
Shannon immediately began performing CPR until Special Constable Laura Meeks and paramedic Emily Brown from the Joint Response Unit arrived on the scene. The emergency response was further supported by an air ambulance as additional crews took over the rescue efforts.
Thanks to the use of a defibrillator and rapid emergency care, Peter regained consciousness and is currently recovering in hospital. To express their gratitude, Peter’s family surprised SC Meeks with flowers during a special constables’ training session.
“She was so calm, focused, and reassuring. The speed and professionalism demonstrated by her and the paramedics was amazing. She is a real credit to Kent Police, the Special Constabulary, and the Joint Response Unit,” said Annie, Peter’s sister.
Shannon, who performed the CPR, added, “I learned CPR in school, but you never expect to use it on a loved one. It’s crucial to recognise the signs of cardiac arrest and act immediately. Knowing CPR can truly save a life.”
Special Constable Laura Meeks joined Kent Special Constabulary in August 2023 and qualified in February 2024. She volunteers multiple times a week while working as an energy company call handler.
“It was a lovely surprise to see Peter’s family. I had no idea and was very emotional. I’m just glad I could help and that they could celebrate his birthday with him in hospital,” Meeks said.
The Joint Response Unit is a pioneering partnership between Kent Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service. Special constables and paramedics work side-by-side to respond rapidly to emergencies and save lives.
Kent Special Constabulary, recipient of The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, offers unique frontline policing roles. Those interested can visit the Kent Police website to join the force that is making a real difference on the ground.
Originally published by UKNIP.
