Mum promotes first aid group after son nearly dies

A MUM whose teenage son was revived after he died for 15 minutes has formed a group to promote awareness of basic first aid skills. In October James Doherty, then 13, was brought back to life after he had a cardiac arrest while playing tennis. He was g

A MUM whose teenage son was revived after he "died" for 15 minutes has formed a group to promote awareness of basic first aid skills.

In October James Doherty, then 13, was brought back to life after he had a cardiac arrest while playing tennis.

He was given CPR by a passer-by, despite having no first aid training.

After the cardiac arrest, the Monk's Walk School pupil, of High Street, Codicote, made a full recovery.

Since then, however, mum Sarah has been determined to get more people in the community to learn lifesaving skills.

And with that determination she has set up Codicote Heart Action Trust (CHAT).

The mum-of-three said: "A small group of Codicote residents [six in total] who offered great support to me following James' cardiac arrest have got together to form the group.

"We are keen to be able to offer as much free basic first aid training (with CPR included) to as many people as wish to receive it."

Sarah added: "Hopefully most people will never need to use the skills they learn at our awareness sessions, but being prepared in case the worst happens, like it did to us, can offer a fantastic peace of mind."

There will be a free CHAT session, in conjunction with the British Red Cross, on Saturday.

It will be held at Codicote Primary School, in Meadow Way, for two hours from 10am.

Donations to CHAT are welcome.

If you would like to attend or for more information call Sarah Doherty on 07788 568689 or email chat@codicotevillage.co.uk