Man praises officers after cardiac arrest at Thoulstone Park parkrun
David Painter, from Dilton Marsh, suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after beginning a parkrun last month
A 74-year-old man has expressed his gratitude to officers who saved his life during an emergency at Thoulstone Park, near Westbury.
David Painter, from Dilton Marsh, suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after beginning a parkrun on 13th June.
PC Vicky Howick, who was running behind him, identified signs of cardiac arrest and quickly called for a defibrillator while enacting CPR, with the assistance of another runner, until paramedics and the Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance arrived.
One of the officers involved, PC Nick Slade, went to David's home to inform his wife, Jackie, and drove her to Bristol Royal Infirmary, offering support throughout the journey.
Both officers received commendations from Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith for their life-saving efforts.
On Monday, 3rd August, David met with the officers at Thoulstone Park to personally thank them, saying the defibrillator and CPR were crucial to his survival.
Reflecting on his recovery, David underwent heart surgery and had a cardioverter defibrillator fitted, resulting in advice not to drive or run for six months. In the meantime, he plans to volunteer at parkruns.
During the meeting, PC Howick gifted David a replacement for his 2016 Bath Half Marathon T-shirt, which had been cut during the emergency, surprising him with a London Marathon T-shirt.
Highlighting the importance of police first aid training, Vicky Howick, a 20-year veteran officer, stated: "It's fantastic to see him doing so well."
Jackie Painter shared how PC Slade’s presence offered much-needed support amid the distressing scenario. She described him as "amazing" for his assistance at the hospital.
The incident has inspired the local parkrun to organise a first aid course for 50 runners, promoting skills that could be life-saving during emergencies.