Lifesaving Actions: Royal Free London Physiotherapist Rescues Heart Attack Victim

In an extraordinary display of quick thinking and medical expertise, Wendy Levin, a dedicated physiotherapist from Royal Free London, emerged as a hero following her lifesaving intervention for Julian Morgan, a 63-year-old squash enthusiast, during a critical moment at a local club in Crouch End.

The incident unfolded shortly after Wendy had concluded a squash game. Alerted to Julian’s distressing condition, she immediately recognized the signs of a heart attack, contrary to initial suspicions of a seizure. With Julian’s condition rapidly deteriorating, Wendy sprang into action, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to sustain oxygen flow to his brain and utilizing an on-site defibrillator to administer an essential electric shock, aiming to restart his heart.

Wendy’s prompt and skilled response, supported by a club first aider, bridged the crucial gap before the arrival of the London Ambulance Service paramedics, who then took over, providing advanced care before transporting Julian to the specialized cardiac care at Barts Heart Centre, part of Barts Health NHS Trust.

Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Wendy, who has accumulated over 17 years of service with the trust, emphasized the automatic nature of her response, driven by her extensive medical training and a resolute determination to save Julian’s life. Her actions that day underscore the invaluable impact of CPR knowledge and the profound difference it can make in emergency situations.

Julian Morgan, now on a steady path to recovery, expressed his profound gratitude towards Wendy. He highlighted the significance of her intervention, not just for his survival but also for the continued opportunity to be present in the lives of his adult children. Julian’s story is a testament to the critical importance of immediate and competent first aid in life-threatening situations.

Wendy’s heroic act has sparked a conversation about the importance of widespread CPR training. She advocates for comprehensive training for NHS staff and the general public, emphasizing that knowing CPR can empower individuals to save lives in unexpected emergencies.

This remarkable story of courage, skill, and timely action serves as a powerful reminder of the difference that each one of us can make, armed with the right knowledge and the willingness to act when faced with a crisis.