Early CPR saves mother suffering a cardiac arrest

Mother-of-three Katie Connolly had just turned fifty when her life suddenly changed.

“I suffered a major heart attack at home, and that quickly led to a cardiac arrest,” says Katie.

“My health had always been good, although, looking back, maybe I’d been a bit breathless, but I thought that was my new normal.

“Then one night, around 11:30pm, I felt this chest pain that spread across to my shoulder and down my arm. My hands went numb, and I knew something wasn’t right.”

Katie’s husband immediately called Triple-Zero (000). Within minutes, paramedics from the ACT Ambulance Service were at their home.

“They were brilliant,” says Katie.

“They were calm and reassuring, chatting with me in the bedroom to keep me relaxed.

“But within minutes of the paramedics arriving, I went into full cardiac arrest. If it wasn’t for them and their quick response - the CPR and the defibrillation - I wouldn’t be here today."

Paramedic Denise says Katie’s survival is a powerful reminder of how critical immediate action is when someone suffers a cardiac arrest.

“The most important thing I would say to all members of the community is don’t be afraid to act,” says Denise.

“When you call Triple Zero (000), our call-takers will guide you through what to do. If CPR is advised, they’ll talk you through it step-by-step.

“You can’t hurt the person who is suffering the cardiac arrest. Any CPR you do, especially good CPR, will improve their chances of survival."

Every year around Restart a Heart Day, the ACT Ambulance Service hopes the Canberra community can remember three vital words: Call. Push. Shock.

Bonnie, also a paramedic with ACT Ambulance Service, says the campaign aims to break down the fear that stops people from helping.

“A lot of people hesitate because they’re afraid of doing harm,” says Bonnie, “but by starting CPR, you’re already doubling someone’s chances of survival.

“Every second counts. Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time, to anyone.”

Jessica, another ACT Ambulance Service paramedic, says community awareness and education are vital.

“We receive calls from people of all ages - children, teenagers, and adults - because cardiac arrest can strike anyone,” says Jessica.

“That’s why it’s so important for everyone to understand what to do: call Triple Zero (000), push on the chest, and use a defibrillator if one’s available. You don’t have to be an expert to save a life.”

For Katie Connolly, the experience has changed her perspective forever.

“Everywhere I go now, I notice where the defibrillators are,” she says.

“I talk to anyone who will listen about the importance of CPR and defibrillation.

“I’m just so grateful to the paramedics that came to me that day, and worked on me, and didn’t give up on me.

“If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t get to live on and create the next chapter in my story.”