Ex-Cop Saved by Firefighter Friends After Cardiac Arrest on Golf Course
Golf Game Turns Life-Saving
Martin George, a former police officer, was playing golf when he suddenly stopped breathing. On November 4 last year, while out on the course, Martin went into cardiac arrest.
Luckily, on-call firefighters Dan Moon and Wayne Challen from Midhurst Fire Station were right there. The pair quickly called an ambulance and sprang into action, performing CPR and using a defibrillator at Cowdray Park Golf Club to save Martin’s life.
Life-Saving Kit and Quick Thinking
Martin was rushed by air ambulance to Queen Alexandra Hospital in portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth for urgent surgery. Reflecting on the ordeal, he said:
“I cannot thank Dan and Wayne enough for everything they have done for me. I had back pains that morning and almost skipped golf. In a strange way, I’m glad I didn’t — because I was with trained people who gave me the best chance to survive.”
He praised the club for having a defibrillator on-site and staff trained in first aid. “Every minute without a shock lowers survival chances, so having quick access to lifesaving equipment is crucial,” Martin added.
Fire Chiefs Praise Heroic Firefighters
Martin visited Midhurst Fire Station along with West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Peter Rickard, to thank the brave firefighters.
“Firefighters expect to use first aid on the job, but stepping up in unexpected situations can be daunting. I’m proud Wayne and Dan had the confidence to act immediately — their quick response saved a friend’s life,” Rickard said.
He also stressed the importance of CPR training and urged everyone to learn how to use defibrillators, many of which are now installed at busy fire stations and on fire engines across the county.
Learn Lifesaving Skills
The British Heart Foundation provides vital resources on CPR training. Knowing these skills can truly be the difference between life and death.
