Vertu has underlined the lifesaving importance of CPR and rapid access to defibrillators during World Heart Rhythm Week (2-8 June), with quick-thinking staff at Vertu Hamilton Toyota saving a life on site.
Vertu Hamilton Toyota staff are being recognised after their use of a defibrillator saved the life of a delivery driver who suffered a cardiac arrest on site. Jim Lynch, a driver working for ADC Logistics, had arrived at the site on Whistleberry Road to collect a car when he started to suffer from chest pains and went into cardiac arrest.
Showroom host Ashley Alexander, general manager Michael Clarke and workshop controller Allan Baird immediately recognised the seriousness of the situation and took control, locating the dealership’s defibrillator and using it to help stabilise Lynch and keep him alive until paramedics arrived.
Lynch was taken to hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery, and is now back home with his wife and family continuing his recovery.
He said: “I honestly wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them. I don’t remember much about what happened, but I do know that they didn’t hesitate.
“They stepped in, used the defibrillator and gave me a second chance to go home to my family. I’ll never be able to thank them enough.”
Lynch has been in touch with the dealership to pass on his thanks.
Michael Clarke, general manager at Vertu Hamilton Toyota, said: “That phone call meant a lot. Hearing Jim’s voice and knowing he’s back home with his family was incredibly emotional. It’s without doubt the best phone call I’ve had in a long time. When Jim collapsed, we knew we had to act straight away; there was no time to overthink things. We all knew where the defibrillator was and how to get to it quickly.
“Those minutes matter and having it on site made all the difference as it talked us through what to do and we could focus on keeping Jim alive until the paramedics arrived. It was terrifying at first, but once you realise someone’s life is in your hands and the adrenaline kicks in, you just get on with it.
“Knowing that every Vertu dealership is equipped in the same way gives real confidence that we’re doing the right thing for colleagues, customers and visitors alike.”
Vertu Hamilton Toyota also contacted Lynch’s employers to ensure that they were fully aware of what was happening.
