Medics race to save life of teenage footballer


An aircrew paramedic has praised off-duty medical professionals who saved the life of a teenager who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing football. Great North Air Ambulance Service paramedic, Terry Sharpe, was called into action when Adam Stephens, 17, of Otterburn, collapsed and fell to the ground during a game at Haydon Bridge United in the Northumberland village on Sunday. Off-duty medics had begun treatment while GNAAS was called to the scene.

An aircrew paramedic has praised off-duty medical professionals who saved the life of a teenager who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing football.

Great North Air Ambulance Service paramedic, Terry Sharpe, was called into action when Adam Stephens, 17, of Otterburn, collapsed and fell to the ground during a game at Haydon Bridge United in the Northumberland village on Sunday.

Off-duty medics had begun treatment while GNAAS was called to the scene. Mr Sharpe, said: “It was so fortunate to have an off-duty doctor and paramedic both at the scene. If they weren’t there or hadn’t recognised what had happened, the outcome could have been different.”

GNAAS was requested to the football pitch at around 11.15am when Adam went into cardiac arrest. The trauma team anesthetised him and took over his treatment, before flying him to Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital in 12 minutes. He is now in a stable condition.

A Go Fund Me account has been set up by Francesca Barnes in a bid to raise cash and awareness for GNAAS. She writes: “Without our fantastic life saving services here in the North many would suffer and some loved ones would not be here today. Regardless of whether or not you know this student, it is an excellent example of the much needed work done by medical professionals and the Great North Air Ambulance and the impact this service had on the community. Please get involved, donate, like, share, raise awareness and invite friends to help raise money to show our huge appreciation for the service they provided.”

The fund, which was set up just two days ago, has already raised £1,270. To donate, click here.

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