Not all heroes wear capes… our Unsung Heroes series celebrates ordinary people doing extraordinary work. Today it’s Karen, 47, from west London, who administers first aid at public events.
What do you do?
I’m a cycle responder volunteer, so I bike through busy events to provide fast first aid assistance. I’ve done it for 11 years. Last year, our team helped at 220 events. I volunteer 500 hours in total per year.
What sort of events?
Trooping the Colour, London Marathon, football parades. Royal events are my favourite. I love the aeroplane fly-bys.
Any brushes with royalty?
At the King’s Coronation I watched his carriage pass by – that was exciting!
Why are cycle responders so useful?
We quickly reach a person who needs help with a surprising amount of equipment.
What kit do you use?
A pocket defibrillator, oxygen, airway management kit, blood pressure monitors, medication, dressings, burn packs and more.
Any common call-outs?
On The Mall there’s a particular tree that triggers allergic reactions in many people.
Any strange situations?
A lady fainted at one Trooping the Colour parade, then her husband fainted. They were very confused to wake up next to each other on the floor. Both were fine.
What medical emergencies can you treat on the spot?
Diabetes, asthma, allergies, fractures, serious cuts. For a cardiac arrest, I can open airways to help with breathing and try to restart the heart with my defibrillator.
What’s your day job?
I’m a deputy head at a primary school.
How far do you cycle?
Maybe 50 miles per event at a slow speed. Constant braking makes your arms tired!
How do you deal with the pressure?
Your own stress takes a back burner. You are helping somebody when they really need it. You treat the injury.
Any feedback?
A retired footballer came to us and said thank you. He’d had a cardiac arrest and his life was saved by someone who learned CPR, just like us.
Everyone can learn. Doing something is better than doing nothing.
How do you chill out?
Volunteering is my relaxation. I also enjoy hiking, running and skiing.
Volunteer or donate to St John Ambulance at sja.org.uk
