Cardiac arrest survivor meets lifesaving crew in Kempston

Bernie Dean, 62, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest in Bromham Road, Bedford in July this year.

His wife Pauline, whilst on the phone to emergency services, gave him chest compressions to make sure he had a fighting chance of survival.

Ambulance crews from Bedford and Kempston rushed to the scene after just four minutes before using a Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System (LUCAS) device to get Bernie's heart beating again.

He was taken to Bedford Hospital where he was handed over to the awaiting medical team.

Remarkably Bernie and his wife Pauline, were able to visit his lifesavers at Kempston on Friday, November 15 so he could thank the whole team.

In cards presented to each person, Bernie said: “There is no doubt that without your skills I would not be here today to say thank you.

"The July 4 is now my second birth and I will always think of you all and your amazing efforts each year I am still here.”

Craig Borrett, assistant general manager for North Bedfordshire who organised the patient meet up, said: “I am so pleased to have been able to also meet with Bernie and Pauline.

“Thankfully everything was perfectly aligned for such an amazing outcome – from clear instructions given by Ben Hawkins, Pauline providing effective CPR until our staff promptly arrived, as well as the advanced skills and knowledge of Phil and the interventions and care provided by Sarah Park, Dianne Jenkins and Julie Manners – a true EEAST team effort.”

Bernie is looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of various vehicles he owns and joked that he can’t wait to get back to work to give Pauline some much needed respite.