Westfield man re-united with paramedic life-savers

Keith Taylor, 78, has now recovered after paramedic Tim Hodgson responded to Keith’s wife Marie’s emergency call back in September.

Keith had been suffering from a headache for a few weeks and had visited his GP but it had been attributed to ongoing sinusitis.

When Keith’s condition worsened however, with him vomiting and losing awareness, Marie dialled 999 and Tim raced to the scene in a response vehicle.

Spotting the possible seriousness of Keith’s condition, Tim decided to take Keith on the relatively short journey to Conquest Hospital in his car immediately.

At the Conquest Keith was assessed and given a scan which revealed the bleed and build-up of pressure.

Later that evening an emergency transfer was arranged and Keith was taken for specialist treatment at Hurstwood Park Neurological Centre in Haywards Heath by Tim’s colleagues, paramedics Karen Demeza and Jon Middleton.

There, Keith underwent a successful operation to relieve the pressure on his brain and was discharged home after nine days.

Keith says he remembers very little about what happened.

This week he met the crew who saved his life to thank them in person.

He said: “I’m so pleased I’ve been able to come and say thank you for everything Tim, Karen and Jon did.

“I’m so appreciative.

“Tim was also so good with Marie, keeping her informed and reassuring her.

“She would have loved to come to say thank you too but unfortunately she suffered a fall this week and is recovering at home.”

Keith, a retired squadron leader in the RAF and former teacher and care home manager, visited Hastings Ambulance Station earlier this week.

He and Marie moved to Sussex from Lytham St Annes in April to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Keith said: “I’ve always generally been fit and well and the last few months has been very hard, particularly on Marie.

“I’m feeling pretty good though and although I don’t always feel quite as sharp as I was, I’ve so far not been given any reason to think there are going to be any long term issues.

“Both Marie and I are hoping next year will be a lot calmer.”

Tim added: “I’ve been to people suffering from bleeds a number of times so I was soon aware that something serious could be happening.

“I’m just so pleased to see that Keith has recovered so well and it’s nice to meet a patient we’ve helped again.

“I wish him and all his family all the best for the future and a very Happy Christmas.”