Month: September 2014

Tuesday 30th September 2014 – 7.45pm – Steve Parry.

A teenager has been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Halesowen this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Grange Road at just after 5pm.

An ambulance, a paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle; a community paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulances based at Cosford were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews attended a collision between a lorry and van.

“A woman passenger in the van, believed to be 17 years old, was trapped for a short time. She received treatment for a leg injury. The woman was immobilised using a splint, neck collar and spinal board. She was given pain relief before being conveyed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital by land ambulance.”

 

End

 

Tuesday 30th September 2014 – 3.05pm – Suzie Wheaton.

ASDA stores throughout Staffordshire have now been fitted with lifesaving defibrillators.

The specialist devices are being installed in all ASDA’s stores throughout the country in conjunction with the British Heart Foundation. A defibrillator is a device that can be used to restart someone’s heart when they’ve suffered a cardiac arrest. These machines are extremely easy to use, meaning people of all ages and walks of life can provide emergency care to those who need it, quickly and effectively prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

Over the last few months members of staff from the retailer have undertaken training in the use of the lifesaving equipment and first aid to ensure that if any shoppers become seriously ill whilst at the centre, they are given the best possible chance of survival.

WMAS Community Response Manager, Matt Heward said: “The ambulance service strongly believes that by having defibrillators installed in public places, such as shopping centres, schools and business premises, and having people trained in their use and basic first aid techniques, really can help to save lives.

“It is excellent news that ASDA has recognised the importance of installing such lifesaving equipment nationally. Eighty-five percent of those people who suffer cardiac arrests have the ability to be corrected by defibrillation. The quicker someone is defibrillated, not only improves the chance of their survival but it can also help to improve the chances of a patient’s full recovery and reduce the time to do so. For every minute a patient is in cardiac arrest, their chance of survival decreases by 10 percent.”

Bev Capon, Community life Champion at ASDA said “I can safely speak for all Asda store managers and colleagues when I say we are proud to part of this fantastic initiative.

“Here at Asda Tunstall we have had cause to use our defibrillator when one of our colleagues suffered a cardiac arrest in store. The colleague made a full recovery and is now enjoying his retirement with his family.

“If we can help save just one life in our local community, then the device location will be more than worthwhile.

“We have colleagues in every store who are trained in the use of the defibrillator and we have made all surrounding retailers aware of its location so that in an emergency they will know it is at hand.”

Following the national roll out Asda Tunstall now has a spare defib, which it would love to home within the local community. If you are a business owner, work in a sports club or in any other public area, that you think would benefit from receiving a free defib and training please contact WMAS Community Response Manager, Matt Heward via Matthew.heward@wmas.nhs.uk

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The Shrewsbury CFR group is in the finals of the Lloyds Bank Community Fund and now the volunteer lifesavers need your help.

Please vote for them here:

https://communityfund.lloydsbank.com/voting/cf_org_vote_profile.asp?cfr=98b001

The group could win as much as £3,000 depending on how many votes it gets. The money would buy new equipment for the volunteers.

 

 

Monday 29th September 2014 – 7.30pm – Steve Parry.

A pedestrian has been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Stoke this evening.

The incident occurred in Knypersley Road, Norton at just before 4pm.

Two ambulances, together with a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to an incident involving a pedestrian in collision with a car.

“A female in her seventies was treated for serious leg, pelvic and abdominal injuries.

“The patient was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and placed on a spinal board before she was taken to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.

“The male driver of the car was assessed at the scene and did not require hospital treatment.”

• End – .

Monday 29th September 2014 – 5.15pm – Suzie Wheaton.

West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) has now trained 30,000 members of public from Staffordshire in the lifesaving British Heart Foundation HeartStart course.

This huge milestone for the project is being marked as ambulance staff train a further 23 pupils at Burton and Derbyshire College (BSDC) to become HeartStart Instructors today (Monday 29th September).

On the 1st April 2012, the service embarked on the five year project, aiming to train basic life support skills to 60,000 people within the county. That means the service has, on average, trained almost 33 people every single day across the county, in vital lifesaving skills.

The free two hour British Heart Foundation courses are suitable for anyone from the age of ten years old and up, covering various lifesaving and first aid techniques, including CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), the management of severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, chocking and chest pain.

Victoria Tufail, WMAS Community Response Manager said: “The project has really gone from strength to strength, with many more courses planned over the forthcoming months.

“The Trust is absolutely thrilled by the response for these courses. We believe that it is extremely important to increase the public’s understanding of what they should do in a medical emergency.

“One of the main aims of the project was to concentrate on getting schools and colleges involved, providing pupils with lifesaving skills at a young age. Burton and Derbyshire College has really embraced the ethos of the project; not only teaching their public service students in the course, but also taking it one step further with many of the students going on to become HeartStart instructors.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in making this project a success so far, from the dedicated HeartStart team and volunteer trainers, who have put in tireless efforts, to the public for proactively supporting the project and taking part in the course.”

Rob Stevenson, Public Services Lecturer at Burton and South Derbyshire College added: “We are delighted to be continuing our commitment to the HeartStart project. Volunteering is an essential part of the public services curriculum and learners are always eager to have a positive impact in their local community. Participating in the project not only gives learners the skills to save a life, but also provides them with confidence in themselves and their delivery.”

For more information about HeartStart or to book on to a free course, please visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/ourservices/heartstartstaffs.aspx, contact the team via heartstartstaffordshire@wmas.nhs.uk or call 01785 237341. Please leave a message and someone will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.

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Notes to editors

Last year 26 students from the college also trained as HeartStart Instructors bringing the total to 49 (including the 23 mentioned above).

Monday 29^th September 2014 – 5.05pm – Claire Brown.

A collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Tamworth has left a boy with serious lower leg injuries this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A5, near Stoneydelph Lane, at 3.20pm earlier today (Monday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Tatenhill attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “A pedestrian and a car had been involved in a collision on the A5 dual carriageway. The pedestrian, an 11-year-old boy, had reportedly been knocked unconscious in the collision. Upon assessment by ambulance staff, they found not only had he sustained a suspected head injury but he had also suffered a nasty fracture to his lower leg and ankle.

“Working as a team, ambulance staff administered analgesia to the boy to manage his pain before he was fully immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and leg splint.

“Once stable the boy was transferred to the awaiting helicopter, which had landed on the carriageway, before being airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“The driver of the car, a man, was uninjured.

“The A5 was closed in both directions by police for a short time so that the air ambulance could land and lift safely.”

 

ENDS

Monday 29^th September 2014 – 2.30pm – Claire Brown.

Despite resuscitation efforts by a bystander and medics, a motorcyclist has died in a collision in Hereford this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A49, 300 yards from the Moreton crossroads in Moreton-on-Lugg at around 11.30am today (Monday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT Trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival, ambulance staff found an off-duty police officer performing CPR on a motorcyclist who had sustained serious injuries and was in cardiac arrest. The motorcyclist, a man, had reportedly been involved in a collision with a car which had left the scene.

“Ambulance staff and the medic took over resuscitation and commenced advanced life support on the man. Sadly, despite their best efforts, nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“West Mercia Police are appealing for the driver of a car, thought to be involved in the collision, to come forward. The driver, a female, was last seen driving towards Hereford in a green or grey hatchback. No other description is known.

“The driver, or any witnesses with information, are asked to contact the police on 101 quoting incident 254S of Monday 29 September.”

ENDS

 

Monday 29^th September 2014 – 2.00pm – Claire Brown.

A pedestrian has died following a collision with a bus in Coventry this morning.

The incident happened in Remembrance Road, Willenhall, shortly before 11am (Monday). An ambulance and a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The pedestrian, a woman, had sustained serious injuries. Sadly ambulance staff were unable to save her and she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the bus, a man, was assessed but was uninjured.

“The road remains closed this afternoon whilst West Midlands Police continue their investigations.”

 

ENDS

 

Monday 29^th September 2014 – 12.00noon – Claire Brown.

 

A woman has died following a road traffic collision in Worcester Town Centre this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received multiple 999 calls to reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and a lorry in The Shambles in Worcester shortly after 9.15am today (Monday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic and a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival crews found a pedestrian, a woman, who had been in collision with a lorry. Sadly, it quickly became apparent to ambulance staff that nothing could be done to save the woman and she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“Ambulance staff assessed several bystanders who were suffering from the effects of shock after witnessing the incident but no one required hospital treatment.

“The road remains closed by the police.”

 

ENDS

 

Monday 29^th September 2014 – 8.35am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

Three people have received emergency treatment from ambulance crews, two of whom had to be cut free, following a road traffic collision in Coventry last night (Sunday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Fletchamstead Highway in Eastern Green shortly before midnight and sent three ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the MERIT trauma doctor to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered two vehicles that had been in collision, one with significant front end damage and one with damage to the side of the car.

“There were three patients, all from the same car, one who managed to free themselves from the rear of the vehicle, but the two front seat passengers had to carefully be cut free with the assistance of the fire service.

“The rear seat passenger, a woman in her 40s, freed herself from the vehicle and was assessed and treated for chest, abdominal and pelvic injuries.

“The driver, a woman in her 30s, was treated for a fractured right arm whilst the passenger, a man in his 30s, was treated for chest pain and a left wrist fracture.

“All three patients were immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment.”

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Notes to Editors:

If using the image, please credit West Midlands Ambulance Service.

 

Sunday 28^th September 2014 – 6.50am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A pedestrian has been anaesthetised at the scene of a serious road traffic collision in Birmingham.

The collision between a car and the pedestrian happened on Coventry Road, Yardley, at 1.20am this morning (Sunday) and West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer and a MERIT trauma doctor to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, staff found a man lying unconscious in the road and a car that had suffered significant damage to the windscreen.

“The man, believed to be in his 20s, had suffered a serious head injury and was anaesthetised by the doctor from the MERIT vehicle. He was taken to the Major Trauma Centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the doctor travelling with the crew to continue treatment en-route.

“The driver of the car was checked over at the scene but did not require any further treatment.”

Ends.

Saturday 27th September 2014 – 12.50pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A pedestrian has suffered multiple serious injuries, including a significant head injury, following a collision with a car in Atherstone this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Watling Street, Witherley, shortly after 7am this morning and sent an ambulance, a community paramedic and a paramedic area support officer to the scene. An off-duty community paramedic was also on scene to offer additional support.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service man said: “Crews arrived to find a pedestrian, a man in his 30s, lying unconscious on the road and a car that had suffered significant damage to the windscreen and roof in the collision.

“The man, who remained unconscious throughout, was assessed by ambulance staff and treated for a serious head injury, a broken left leg and suspected fractures to his pelvis and spine.

“He was fully immobilised with the use of a neck collar, pelvic splint and scoop stretcher before being transported on alert to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“Emergency medical treatment continued en-route to the hospital but unfortunately the man’s injuries are deemed to be extremely serious.

“The driver of the car was uninjured in the incident.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

If used, please credit the picture to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Friday 26^th September 2014 – 1.50pm – Claire Brown.

A hotel in Wolverhampton has added a life-saving box to its list of guest amenities thanks to a generous donation by The Rotary Club.

The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel on the Penn Road recently took delivery of an Automated External Defibrillator; a device used to help restart the heart of someone in cardiac arrest. The piece of kit was donated by The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton and part-funded by a family fun day organised and hosted by the hotel and Rotary Club.

West Midlands Ambulance Service recently went along to The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel to train a total of 16 people, including hotel staff and Rotary members, in basic first aid and how to use the defibrillator. The defibrillator, which is located on the wall by the entrance of the hotel, is not only accessible to hotel staff but also to members of the public in an emergency.

Andy Jeynes, the Trust’s Community Response Manager for Birmingham and the Black Country, said: “Its common sense for such a busy leisure facility to have a defibrillator and people trained in first aid as, with so many people using the hotel, it’s inevitable that someone will need vital first aid. They’re a very proactive team who are keen on looking after their visitors and staff alike.

“By increasing the amount of defibrillators in the public domain and by increasing the number of appropriately trained personnel in the use of a defibrillator and basic life support, the percentages of survival from a cardiac arrest can only increase.”

David Richards from the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton St Georges said: “Thank you to West Midlands Ambulance Service for their excellent training, I would hope that everyone who attended now feels more confident in their ability to help if confronted with a real life situation. Thanks also to Andrea Gubbins and the staff at The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel who have really embraced the project. Another instance of Rotary making a difference in the community.”

Andrea Gubbins, General Manager of The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel, said: “Installing easily accessible defibrillators could potentially save many lives, so we are delighted to have been able to help make this vital piece of equipment available both to the local community and of course to our guests.”

 

ENDS

 

Notes to Editor:

 

Pictured (back row, left to right): Sophie Shaylor and Sarah Phillips (both of The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel), Judi Barry (member of Rotary Club of Wolverhampton St. Georges)

(Front row, left to right): Margaret Clewley (President of RC Wolverhampton St. Georges), Andrea Gubbins (General Manager, The Mercure Wolverhampton Goldthorn Hotel), Nigel Mills (Past President of RC Wolverhampton St. Georges) Andy Jeynes (Community Response Manager WMAS)

 

Friday 26th September 2014 – 7.15am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A woman motorcyclist has died following a road traffic collision with a car in Birmingham last night (Thursday).

The incident occurred at the junction of Chester Road and Forth Drive, Fordbridge, shortly after 8.40pm and West Midlands Ambulance Service sent two ambulances, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer and a MERIT trauma doctor to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcycle that had been in a serious collision with a car.

“The woman riding the motorcycle was in traumatic cardiac arrest and advanced life support was carried out at the scene.

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medics, nothing could be done to save her and sadly, she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the car, a man in his 30s, was treated for injuries to his face before being taken to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment.”

Ends

We have no further details on this incident.

Thursday 25^th September 2014 – 11pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A pedestrian has suffered a number of serious injuries to his head, arms and legs following a collision with a car in Coventry tonight.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Ansty Road, near to the junction of Sewall Highway and Hipswell Highway, shortly after 9.25pm and sent an ambulance, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic area support officer to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man with a reduced level of consciousness and a car that had suffered front end damage.

“The man, believed to be in his 40s, was assessed by ambulance staff and treated for head injuries, fractured arms and suspected fractured legs.

“He was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“Nobody else was injured during the course of the incident.”

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Thursday 25^th September 2014 – 2.50pm – Claire Brown.

Specialist paramedics and a medic were needed to help treat a man who had fallen from scaffolding, landing in a narrow passageway between two properties, in Birmingham.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bells Lane, Kings Heath shortly before 11.00am this morning (Thursday). Paramedics from the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team, a MERIT trauma doctor, a responder paramedic and an ambulance crew were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The man, believed to be in his 50s, had fallen approximately six feet from scaffolding landing in a narrow passageway about three feet wide. Upon assessment, ambulance staff found he had sustained a minor head injury and a suspected spinal injury in the fall and required immobilisation. The man was given intravenous analgesia to stabilise his condition.

“Due to the difficult location, ambulance staff on scene requested HART paramedics to help with immobilising the patient in the confined space.

“Once immobilised the man was carried out of the passageway to the awaiting ambulance before being taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

 

ENDS

 

Thursday 25^th September 2014 – 1.00pm – Claire Brown.

After 35 years of saving lives, a paramedic from the Black Country is hanging up his uniform to retire and start a new chapter in his life.

Willenhall-based Paramedic, Roy Sampson, worked his last shift on Wednesday this week and was thrown a surprise farewell party by his colleagues who had turned out en masse to wish him well.

Roy, 54 from Cradley Heath, swapped his first job at a bakery to join the Trust as a fresh-faced teenager to become an ambulance attendant in Birmingham in 1979. In the early years, as well as working on the ‘front line’ Roy also tried his hand at patient transport services taking people to and from hospital appointments. After qualifying as a paramedic at Hob Moor Road in the 1980s, he quickly worked his way up the career ladder and moved around Birmingham and the Black Country to take on more senior positions.

After several years of working in the Emergency Operations Centre in Brierley Hill, Roy recently returned to the road for his final role as paramedic Area Support Officer (ASO) based at Willenhall Hub.

On Wednesday 24^th September, Roy said: “Working my last shift has been very emotional. The ambulance service has been such a big part of my life and it’s difficult to comprehend not being here anymore and not working with my friends. I feel sad that I’m leaving but I know it’s the right time for me.

“I’ve still got a nice journey ahead of me in my retirement and I’m really looking forward to what the future holds. My partner and I have got some holidays booked for starters and next year, when I’m ready, I’ll look for a part time job to keep active.”

Paul Baylis, Black Country North Area Manager, said: “Roy will be sorely missed as he is irreplaceable and truly a one off. He’s always been dependable and a respected pillar of the ambulance service and I know I speak on behalf of everyone when I wish Roy a long, happy and healthy retirement.”

ENDS

 

Notes to Editor:

Photograph 1 (left to right): Nick Henry (Black Country General Manager), Craig Cooke (Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, Roy Sampson and Paul Baylis (Black Country North Area Manager)

Photograph 2: Roy (front centre) with colleagues.

Wednesday 24^th September 2014 – 8.40pm – Claire Brown.

An elderly man has been airlifted to a major trauma centre after sustaining a significant ankle injury following a collision with a car in Stratford-upon-Avon this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to outside Oxshalls Farm Hotel on the Warwick Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, shortly before 4.50pm (Wednesday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer, a senior paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The elderly gentleman had reportedly been walking across the road, pushing his bicycle, when the collision with the car happened.

“The man, believed to be in his 80s, was being cared for by passers-by when ambulance staff arrived. Upon assessment, they found he had sustained a nasty fractured and dislocated ankle together with a significant injury to the same foot. Due to the type of injury, the ambulance staff and medic administered three different types of analgesia to relieve the man’s pain. Once these had taken effect, the doctor carefully manipulated the man’s ankle in order to immobilise it in the correct position, using a vacuum splint.

“The man was immobilised with a neck collar and placed onto a scoop stretcher before he was carried to the awaiting helicopter and then airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a major trauma centre.

“The car driver, a man, was understandably shaken but uninjured and did not require hospital treatment.”

ENDS

Please read this press release from Shropshire Council:

https://shropshire.gov.uk/news/2014/09/shropshire-smokers-encouraged-to-swap-fags-for-gags/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read all about it in this press release from Herefordshire Heartstart, a charity supported by West Midlands Ambulance Service:

http://herefordshireheartstart.org/news/press-release-lifesaving-Maggie/

Wednesday 24th September 2014 – 3.30pm – Suzie Wheaton.

Community First Responders (CFRs) are members of the public, from all walks of life, who volunteer their time to help make a difference in their local community.

CFRs help to reach people suffering from medical emergencies in remote rural communities, prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability.

CFRs are trained by the ambulance service to a nationally recognised level. The First Person on Scene Intermediate qualification is delivered to new CFRs over a period of seven days. The week long course is assessed through a number of written and practical examinations. On successful completion of these, each CFR must undertake a number of observational shifts with ambulances crews before they are able to respond solo within their communities.

Victoria Tufail, WMAS Community Response Manager for Staffordshire said: “West Midlands Ambulance Service prides itself on having excellent community schemes that are in place around the region. CFRs are vital in rural communities and it is without doubt that thanks to their efforts, dedication and actions, lives have been saved.

“CFRs can be called upon to attend to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, strokes, falls and breathing problems amongst others. With approximately 850,000 adults suffer a cardiac arrest every year and ninety percent of them have the ability to be corrected by defibrillation, the more quickly a patient in cardiac arrest can be defibrillated the greater the chance of survival. For every minute a patient is in cardiac arrest, their chance of survival decreases by 10 percent.”

The Trust is currently looking for CFRs within the following areas:
Abbots Bromley
Brown Edge and Endon
Hoar Cross
Churnet Valley
Admaston
Dane Valley
Blithbury
Dove Valley
Newton
Dunwood
Tutbury
Flash and Longnor
Draycott in the Clay
Waterhouses
Marchington
Wetton and Alstonfield

Anyone living outside of these areas who are interested in becoming a CFR is also welcome to register their interest.

If you are interested in becoming at CFR volunteer, you should be:
• Aged between 18 – 70
• Have a current clean driving licence
• Be physically fit
• Be able to provide time when you can to attend incidents whether at home or work
• Have a caring nature and be willing to help raise the profile of the schemes in local areas

For more information please email Staffordshire Community Response Manager, Victoria Tufail via victoria.tufail@wmas.nhs.uk or vall 07920 278447

For information about schemes outside of Staffordshire please visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/Pages/CFRs.aspx

Ends

Notes to editors

The Community First Responder Schemes are entirely funded by charitable donations. Many CFRs actively carry out fundraising events to help raise money which goes towards funding responder kits, automated external defibrillators and some schemes even choose to purchase a car to aid them with their response.

Wednesday 24th September 2014 – 2.30pm – Suzie Wheaton.

A man has been taken to hospital after becoming impaled on a metal fence in Warwickshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near to Mill Walk in Nuneaton at approximately 10.25am this morning.

An ambulance, two rapid response vehicles, a paramedic area support officer, the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance and a BASICS doctor were dispatched to scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a man in his 20’s who had become impaled through his arm pit on to a metal fence. It is reported that the man had been fishing over the fence, whilst standing on a wall. Unfortunately, it is believed that the man lost his footing and slipped on to the fence.

“The casualty, who was fully alert and conscious on scene, was given pain relief by ambulance crews. Ambulance staff worked closely with firefighters, who cut away a number of fence prongs, to help free the man.

“The metal prong which was impaling the patient was left in situ and the man was conveyed, via land ambulance, to the major trauma centre at University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire.”

Ends

Wednesday 24th September 2014 – 12.45pm – Suzie Wheaton.

A child has been airlifted to a specialist major trauma centre in Birmingham following a road traffic collision in Shropshire today.

The incident happened on Henley Road in Ludlow shortly after 8.05am this morning.

An ambulance and a rapid response vehicle were initially sent to the scene. On assessment of the patient, ambulance crews requested the assistance of an air ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford, carrying a trauma doctor and a critical care paramedic, was dispatched.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a car and a pedestrian that had been in collision. The pedestrian, a boy, was found lying in the road near to a car, which had sustained damage to the windscreen.

“The boy was found to have a head injury and had a reduced level of consciousness. Due to the potentially serious nature of his injuries, the doctor from the air ambulance provided the patient with an anaesthetic at the scene.

“The boy was fully immobilised by ambulance crews, as a precaution, before being airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for further assessment and specialist treatment.

“The driver of the car was assessed at the scene but was found to be uninjured.”

Ends

West Midlands Ambulance Service is now recruiting for student paramedic positions for 2015-16 start dates. Not only will we train you to become a life saver, we’ll pay you to do it. The 30 month training course will lead to you becoming a state registered paramedic. As a paramedic you will have one of the most amazing careers; saving lives and helping people in their hour of need.

To join us, you’ll need to hold a minimum of 5 GCSEs (inc. English, Maths & Science) plus an A – Level qualification or equivalent and successful applicants must demonstrate a passion to deliver excellent patient care. Applicants must hold a full UK driving licence with Provisional Category C1 entitlement with no more than 3 points.

West Midlands Ambulance Service positively welcomes diversity and aims to be a truly inclusive place to work. We are looking for self-motivated, enthusiastic people from all backgrounds that care about making a difference.

Candidates must fully complete the application form via NHS Jobs or by requesting a paper application from the Recruitment Team on 01384 215 896.

The closing date for applications: Thursday 2nd October 2014

Tuesday 23^rd September 2014 – 5.40pm – Chris Kowalik.

A young driver has been injured in a collision involving the car he was in and a lorry in Warwickshire. West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of the B4115 and Leamington Road at Leek Wootton shortly before 2.20pm today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The car driver, a man in his late teens, had abdominal, pelvic, leg and back injuries and fractured ribs. He was freed from his car after the fire service had cut off its door. He was given pain relief, a pelvic splint was applied and he was immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar. Then, accompanied by the air ambulance doctor, he was taken by land ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

 

“The lorry driver was uninjured.”

Ends

Tuesday 23^rd September 2014 – 4.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

Specialist equipment carried on West Midlands’ ambulances was used on two of three people injured in a road traffic collision today.

The service was called shortly before 1.05pm to reports of a two-car collision at the junction of Monkswood Crescent and Henley Road in Coventry.

A paramedic area support officer and three ambulance crews attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The lone driver of one of the cars involved had to be cut free with the help of the fire service but because of a previous spinal injury, he couldn’t lay flat on a spinal board. Instead, a Kendrick Extrication Device was used. This device secures the upper body and allowed for him to be removed from the vehicle in an upright, seated position.

“An elderly couple in the other vehicle involved had both managed to get out. The Kendrick Extrication Device was used on the woman passenger due to the nature of her injuries. She had a chest injury and a fractured sternum.

“The male driver had chest pains. All three were taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.”

Above: Diagram of a Kendrick Extrication Device. Picture: Wikipedia

Ends

Tuesday 23^rd September 2014 – 12.10pm – Chris Kowalik.

A driver is considered lucky not to have been injured after his car hit five cows that were crossing a main road in rural north Staffordshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A51 at Stableford shortly before 7.25am today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A car, driven by a man in his twenties, had collided with five cows all of which died.

“The car was badly damaged, its driver was shaken but otherwise uninjured. Crews felt that had a cow gone through the windscreen, he could have been killed.

“This case illustrates some of the hazards drivers may face on rural roads.”

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Monday 22^nd September 2014 – 7.22pm – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has been airlifted after a collision with a car that left his bike badly damaged.

The collision happened at the junction of Shortbutts Lane and the Fosseway in Lichfield at about 4.10pm on Monday afternoon.

A rapid response vehicle was on scene within five minutes of the emergency call, backed up by an ambulance. The paramedic on the response vehicle requested an air ambulance shortly after an initial assessment and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire was dispatched.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a bike and a car that had both suffered significant front end damage. The handlebars of the bike were particularly badly affected and there was fluid over the road.

“The 20 year old rider was initially unconscious but had come round to some extent with ambulance staff but was not fully conscious. He had suffered fractures to his right leg, rib pain as well as injuries to his face. Fortunately, his leathers had provided some level of protection or his injuries could have been much worse.

“The man was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board before he was handed over to the aircrew for the short flight to the major trauma centre at University Hospital North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.

“The man driving the car was uninjured.”

 

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Monday 22^nd September 2014 – 6.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A couple in their 60s have escaped serious injury despite their vehicle ending up in undergrowth in a ditch.

The crash happened on at about 4.00pm on the B4035 between Shipston and Brailles in Warwickshire. A community first responder came across the crash and stopped to offer assistance.

An ambulance and a paramedic officer were also sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman, said: “On arrival, ambulance crews were left stunned that no-one had suffered serious injuries based on where the 4×4 had ended up. It was embedded in the undergrowth around the ditch.

“The man driving, had suffered nothing more serious than cuts and bruises while his wife had a bruised arm. After a full assessment, they were discharged.

“Ambulance staff at the scene remarked how fortunate the couple were not to have been more seriously hurt based on where the 4×4 ended up.”

 

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Monday 22^nd September 2014 – 5.10pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A man who was thrown approximately ten feet from his motorbike following a collision with a car in Leamington Spa this morning has been airlifted to one of the region’s major trauma centres.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Fosse Way, near Chesterton, at 11.30am and sent an ambulance, a community paramedic, a rapid response paramedic and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a man, reported to be in his 80s, who had been thrown approximately ten feet from his motorbike following a collision with a car.

“Following assessment from ambulance staff, the man, who remained conscious throughout, was treated for arm and leg fractures and a minor head injury. His injured arm and leg were splinted and he was immobilised on a scoop stretcher.

“He was then airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment.

“Crews were told that a second motorbike had also been in collision with the car in the same incident, but nobody else was injured.”

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Sunday 21st September 2014 – 7.30am – Claire Brown.

Ambulance staff and medics were on scene providing emergency trauma care to a woman who ended up trapped in the wreckage of her car for over an hour in the early hours of this morning in Oldbury.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a two car road traffic collision on the junction of the A4123 and Titford Road, Oldbury, Birmingham just before 1.00am this morning (Sunday). Five ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), medics from the West Midlands Central Accident Resuscitation Emergency (CARE) Team and two further doctors on the MERIT trauma car attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Two cars had been involved in a significant collision; the engine of one of the cars had ended up 50 metres away.

“The driver of this car, a 27-year-old woman, was knocked out and had sustained a serious head injury and fractures to her leg and pelvis. Medics administered advanced analgesia to help manage her pain whilst the fire service worked to extricate her.

“After just over 60 minutes, the woman was released from the badly damaged car and ambulance staff immobilised her onto a neck collar, scoop stretcher and pelvic splint before being alerted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further emergency trauma care.

“The four occupants of the second car, four men, had self-extricated from the vehicle which had caught fire prior to emergency services arrival.

“All four men were walking wounded and had sustained less serious injuries ranging from ankle and abdominal injuries to facial lacerations and minor soft tissue damage. Upon assessment by ambulance staff, two required immobilisation onto a spinal board before all four men were taken to Sandwell Hospital as a precaution.”

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Sunday 21st September 2014 – 6.55am – Claire Brown.

One man has died and two others required emergency pre-hospital care from medics before being transferred to a major trauma centre following a single car crash in Smethwick last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a single car which had left the road and ended up outside St Marks Community Project in Thimblemill Road in Smethwick shortly after 10.45pm last night (Saturday). Four ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, medics from the West Midlands Central Accident Resuscitation Emergency (CARE) Team and two further doctors on the MERIT trauma car attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When ambulance staff arrived they found four occupants who had been involved in the RTC; three of which required immediate medical help. One man was out of the car, in a critical condition and deteriorating quickly. Sadly, the man went into cardiac arrest and despite the best efforts of doctors and paramedics, nothing could be done to save him and was confirmed dead on scene.

“A man, believed to be in his 30s, was trapped in the wreckage and was also in cardiac arrest. A team of doctors and ambulance staff worked to successfully resuscitate him. Fire service colleagues worked around the medical team, who continued to administer emergency treatment, to carefully release the man from the wreckage. The man had sustained significant chest, abdominal and leg injuries and doctors took the decision to anaesthetise him at the roadside to help manage his critical condition and administer further advanced pre-hospital interventions. The man was immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and pelvic splint before being alerted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; one of the doctors travelled with the man to hospital to continue observations and treatment en route.

“A third man, in his 30s, had also been ejected from the car and was found underneath the vehicle. He had sustained nasty abdominal and pelvic injuries. Ambulance staff administered pain relief and a drug to reduce heavy bleeding before the man was fully immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and pelvic splint. Once stable, he too was taken on alert to the same major trauma centre with a doctor on board.

“A fourth patient from the car sustained minor injuries and was taken to Sandwell Hospital as a precaution.”

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Saturday 20^th September 2014 – 6.40pm – Claire Brown.

A woman has died after the motorcycle she was riding collided with a car in Cannock this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Watling Street at around 1.00pm (Saturday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, a senior paramedic officer, a responder paramedic and a responder car from Cosford air base with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When the first ambulance crew arrived they found a woman who had come off her motorcycle following a collision with a car. The woman was unconscious and in a serious condition. Sadly, the woman went into cardiac arrest so ambulance staff and the medic quickly commenced CPR and emergency treatment in an attempt to revive her.

“Despite their best efforts, nothing could be done to save the woman and she was confirmed dead on scene a short time later.

“The driver of the car, a man, sustained minor injuries. He was assessed by crews before being taken by land ambulance to Walsall Manor Hospital.”

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Saturday 20^th September 2014 – 6.30pm – Claire Brown.

A woman, who was trapped in her car undiscovered for four hours, has miraculously escaped serious injuries after she left the road and ended up hitting a tree down a steep embankment in Shropshire this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a 999 call to reports of the incident on the A41 in Tushingham, Whitchurch at 11.30am (Saturday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the North West Air Ambulance with a doctor on board attended the scene as local air ambulances were grounded due to poor weather.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a 21-year-old woman who was mechanically trapped by her legs in the wreckage after coming off the road at around 7.30am. Despite being trapped, the woman was in a stable condition but needed to be cut out of the wreckage which, due to the steep, treacherous location, was impossible.

“The fire service therefore used specialist equipment to fully extricate the vehicle up the bank and onto road level. Ambulance staff then worked to treat and monitor the woman’s condition whilst the fire service carefully began the process of extricating her from the wreckage.

“After around two hours of close cooperation between the two emergency services, the woman was finally released from her six hour ordeal. She had sustained abrasions to her body but, miraculously had no serious injuries. Due to the length of time she had been trapped, the woman was immobilised before being airlifted to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.”

ENDs

Saturday 20th September 2014 – 7.30am – Claire Brown.

A man was trapped in the wreckage of his car for an hour and a half this morning after a collision left his vehicle partially wedged underneath the back of a lorry.

A paramedic area support officer came across the RTC involving two cars and a lorry between junctions 2 and 3 of the A46 in Leek Wootton, Warwick, at 3.45am this morning (Saturday). Two ambulances and a MERIT trauma doctor were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The collision had left one car half-wedged underneath the back of the lorry. The occupant, a man in his 40s, was trapped in the wreckage. The fire service used specialist equipment to lift up the lorry and move it forwards in order for the emergency services to reach the patient.

“Upon assessment, the medics found the man had sustained a serious back injury. Whilst ambulance staff worked to administer pain relief and stabilise his condition, the fire service worked around them to cut away the wreckage.

“Due to the expected prolonged entrapment, a second area support officer collected eight units of blood from hospital and bought it to the scene upon request of the MERIT doctor in case the patient deteriorated. After an hour and a half, the man was finally extricated and immobilised onto a neck collar and spinal board before being conveyed to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.

“The driver of the second car, a man in his 20s, sustained a head injury and pelvic injury in the collision. He was given pain relief and rapidly extricated before being immobilised and taken to the same major trauma centre.

“The lorry driver was uninjured.”

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Saturday 20^th September 2014 – 7.30am – Claire Brown.

A woman had to be rescued from a car by specialist ambulance staff and the fire service after it left the road, went down an embankment and ended up in a shallow brook last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Hambridge Road in Bishops Itchington, Southam, at 10.20pm (Friday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and paramedics from the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The car had left the road, travelled down a steep embankment before coming to rest on the opposite side of the bank of a shallow and slow moving brook approximately 12 feet across.

“The driver, a man believed to be in his 20s, was checked over by staff but was uninjured and was left in the care of the police.

“The front seat passenger, a woman believed to be in her late teens or early 20s, sustained thoracic injuries, pelvic injuries and a fractured leg. Working as a team, ambulance staff administered pain relief and intravenous drugs to stabilise her condition whilst fire colleagues carefully extricated the woman from the car.

“The woman was immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and splint before being carried up the embankment to the awaiting ambulance. The woman was taken on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.”

 

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Friday 19^th September 2014 – 11.30pm – Claire Brown.

A collision involving a car and a horse-drawn-cart in Walsall this evening has left a boy and a teenage girl requiring emergency pre-hospital treatment.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of the Chester Road and Lazy Hill in Stonnall shortly before 8.30pm (Friday). Three ambulances, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer, a MERIT trauma doctor and medics from the Central Accident Resuscitation Emergency (CARE) team attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival crews found a horse-drawn cart and a car which had been involved in a significant collision.

“A young boy, who had been riding the horse at the time of the collision, sustained a serious head injury and abrasions to his body. Due to the nature of the boy’s condition, medics took the decision to anaesthetise him on scene to stabilise him. The boy was immobilised before being taken by ambulance on trauma alert to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“A 17-year-old girl, from the cart, was thrown some distance in the collision. Upon assessment medics found she had sustained suspected spinal injuries. She was given pain relief and further pre-hospital care before being carefully immobilised by ambulance staff and alerted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.

“A man and two-year-old boy, both from the cart, were assessed by ambulance staff and found to have suffered less serious injuries. Both were taken to Walsall Manor Hospital.

“The driver of the car, a man believed to be in his 70s, sustained a minor head injury. He was also taken to Walsall Manor Hospital as a precaution.

“Sadly, the horse was pronounced dead at the scene by an emergency vet.”

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Friday 19th September 2014 – 2.45pm – Steve Parry.

A man has been taken to hospital following a fire at industrial premises in Hartlebury near Kidderminster this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to premises on the Ikon Industrial Estate, Droitwich Road at 1pm.

An ambulance together with a community paramedic and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived on scene to find a fire at industrial premises.

“A man, believed to be in his forties, was treated for smoke inhalation and conveyed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further assessment and treatment.”

 

In a separate incident in Worcestershire, a motorcyclist in his twenties was taken to Worcester Hospital with leg injuries.

The incident involving a car and motorcycle occurred in Sunnyside Road, Worcester at just after 12.30pm.

An ambulance and the Strensham Air Ambulance medics travelling in a car attended the scene.

 

• End – .

Thursday 18th September 2014 – 5.30pm – John Hawker.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “West Midlands Ambulance Service can confirm following the chemical incident earlier, three of the four patients have now been discharged at the scene by ambulance crews and do not require further treatment.

“One patient, a man in his 60’s, is still suffering from minor symptoms and is being transferred by ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further treatment.  The patient’s condition is not considered serious.”

Ends

Thursday 18th September 2014 – 5.00pm – John Hawker.

West Midlands Ambulance Service can confirm it was called to reports of people feeling unwell following visiting toilets at Pool Meadow Bus station, Fairfax Street, Coventry this afternoon at 2.15pm.

Two ambulances, two ambulance officers, a BASICS Doctor and the Trusts HART Team are in attendance at the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “We have treated four patients at the scene for a minor reaction to being in the presence of an unknown substance.  They were suffering from sore throats, runny eyes, and feeling sick.

“All patients have been checked over at the scene by ambulance crews and the BASICS Doctor.  The three men and one woman are having their symptoms and conditions monitored by medics at the scene at present and their conditions are not currently considered serious.

“One further patient had already left the scene when ambulance crews arrived.  The man has now been spoken to by medics and he has no symptoms.

“The station was evacuated as a precaution until the nature of the substance can be discovered and dealt with appropriately by the emergency services.”

Ends

Wednesday 17^th September 2014 – 4.40pm – Claire Brown.

A man who suffered a cardiac arrest whilst playing squash in Wolverhampton last night was given the best chance of survival by people who didn’t think twice about giving CPR a go.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to The Bert Williams Leisure Centre, Nettlefolds Way, Bilston shortly before 7.45pm last night (Wednesday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer, a HART paramedic and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The man in his 60s had reportedly collapsed whilst playing a game of squash at the leisure centre. Quick thinking members of the public and staff immediately dialled 999 before starting CPR.

“Staff grabbed the centre’s automated external defibrillator, a device used to help restart the heart, and delivered three shocks. When ambulance staff arrived, they were greeted by a patient who had been successfully resuscitated and praised the remarkable actions of the bystanders.

“The man, who had a pulse and was breathing by himself, was given further emergency treatment by medics before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to New Cross Hospital.”

MERIT Trauma Doctor Jon Hulme, said: “Quite a lot of people freeze when faced with circumstances such as this but, actually, it was the complete opposite here. The bystanders quickly recognised the man was in cardiac arrest and started CPR and used the defibrillator straight away.

“A significant number of people who survive after a cardiac arrest sustain some brain damage in the first few minutes of stopping breathing if resuscitation is delayed; starting CPR early is vital. This gentleman has got a good chance of recovering because of their actions, they did a truly fantastic job.”

 

ENDS

Notes to Editor: The patient is continuing to receive emergency treatment in hospital today.

Thursday 18^th September 2014 – 3.30pm – John Hawker.

A woman has been trapped in the vehicle she was a passenger in following an RTC in Solihull this morning.

The crash occurred on Catherine De Barnes Lane, Solihull at around 11.45am.  Three ambulances, a paramedic officer and a BASICS Doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find three people that had been travelling in a car that had left the road, hit a tree and overturned.

“The man driving the car and a woman passenger were both out of the vehicle and suffered minor injuries.  Both, believed to be in their 70’s, received treatment at the scene and were transferred by ambulances to Heartlands Hospital.

“A woman passenger, also believed to be in her 70’s, suffered chest, shoulder and abdominal injuries in the crash and was trapped in the vehicle.  She received treatment from medics whilst being cut free from the wreckage.

“The woman’s condition was stabilised and she was transferred by ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Major Trauma Unit for further treatment.”

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Thursday 18^th September 2014 – 10.15am – Claire Brown.

A team of ambulance staff from the Black Country are getting ready to embark on a half marathon to raise money for the Birmingham Children’s Hospital next month.

Eight ambulance staff from Willenhall and Dudley Ambulance Hubs together with eight friends and family members will be running in the Bupa Great Birmingham run on the 19^th October. The team, who are calling themselves the ‘Humpshire et al Athletic Team’ to recognise the colloquial name for Willenhall, hope to raise money for their fellow NHS colleagues; Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Elisha Miller, a paramedic from Willenhall, said: “Some of us have experience of half and full marathons but quite a few, myself included, have never done any sort of distance running and are complete novices so it’s going to be a challenge!

“We’re running to raise funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital because it’s one that’s close to our hearts as we have colleagues whose children have received treatment there.

“We’re hoping to raise £100 each to reach a total of £1,600. If you can spare a few pounds to help us along to our target, we’d really appreciate it. If you’re in Birmingham on the 19^th, please come along to show your support!”

To donate, please visit

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/HumpshireetalAthleticTeam

ENDS

Pictured (left to right): Walton Seaton, Mark Gibbs, Gaz Perret, Mike Howe, Anna Borecka, Alisha McKenzie, Elisha Miller and Kerlen Gage.

You can read more about stroke and some of the measures that may help to prevent some strokes by clicking on the link to the document below. The document has been produced by the stroke association. For more information from the stroke association please visit their website at http://www.stroke.org.uk

How to prevent a stroke

Click on the link below to view Brin’s story

Did you know there are different types of Stroke, view the below video to find out more.

Wednesday 17th September 2014 – 11.00am – Suzie Wheaton.

Brin Helliwell was only 47 when he suffered a stroke after being involved in a road traffic collision. Thanks to the swift actions of his wife in recognising the symptoms, ambulance crews were at his door within minutes.

Every year, approximately 152,000 people in the UK have a stroke. On average West Midlands Ambulance Service receives a call every 20 minutes to a patient having a suspected stroke.

Anyone can suffer a stroke, with almost one third of strokes happening to people under the age of 65. Stroke is the fourth largest killer in the UK, which is why it is so important to recognise the symptoms of stroke FAST!

The sooner a stroke is discovered, the sooner it can be treated and the greater the person’s chances of survival and recovery.

Brin from Sutton Coldfield suffered a stroke in 2005. Talking about his experience Brin said: “On the 31st August 2005, I had an accident whilst cycling to work. I went to hospital with a shoulder injury which was treated and I was discharged. Later that day I felt very, very tired, a crushing tiredness and I thought I was going into shock. I got up to make a telephone call and my wife started yelling at me to sit down. I did and she told that I had stumbled into the door frame and that my speech was all slurred.

“We made a mistake and phoned the doctors first but luckily they said to call 999 straight away and within minutes the ambulance arrived. I went to get off the settee and I was totally paralysed down my left side.

“I’d gone from being a super fit 47-year-old with no other illnesses or problems to being paralysed and that started a long story of hope and despair. I am now full of lots of hope for the future.

“I have fantastic family and friends that have supported me. At the time, I had three teenage lads, so I had everything to live for and get better for. With the help of the physiotherapists and pushing myself every day, I finally got the feeling back in my limbs and I was discharged in December 2005.

“A message I would love to get over to everybody who has had a stroke is you can improve and you don’t stop improving. I am now nine years on and I am still improving, physically, cognitively and emotionally.”

Andy Rosser, WMAS Stroke Liaison Officer, said: “A stroke occurs when the blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. Without this blood, brain cells quickly begin to die. It is estimated that for every minute that the brain is without this vital blood, carrying oxygen and nutrients, that 1.9 million brain cells die. This is why it is so imperative to act FAST.

“The classic symptoms of stroke are picked up through the FAST test*. The most common signs include facial weakness, loss of sensation or range of movement in one arm and noticeable slurred speech or difficulty in finding words. If any of these are noticeable, dial 999 immediately.

“Ambulance crews will carry out quick tests to determine a stroke. The ambulance crew will then transport the patient to one of the stroke centres in the region. This may not be your nearest hospital but one which will be able to provide specialist stroke care.

“Ambulance crews will pre-alert the specialist units and get patients there as quickly as possible. Once in hospital, patients should have a brain scan to determine if the stroke was caused by a blocked artery or a burst blood vessel; which part of the brain has been affected; and how severe the stroke is. Medics will then determine the best treatment to help minimise the effects of the condition.

“Many patients that have a stroke are discharged from hospital and are independent. Some patients are left with a disability and sadly 1 in 5 patients who suffer from a stroke do die. This is why is it extremely important that if you suspect a stroke you must act FAST.”

For more information about stroke, please view our film footage above. It is also available on facebook, twitter and youtube – please search for officialwmas. Further information can also be found on the Stroke Association website http://www.stroke.org.uk

* Remember:
FACIAL weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?
ARM weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
SPEECH problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?
TIME to call 999.

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Wednesday 17^th September 2014 – 7.40am – Claire Brown.

A cyclist and a car driver have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in a Herefordshire village yesterday rush hour.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Mordiford, just north of the villages’ primary school on Dormington shortly before 6.00pm last night (Wednesday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were sent to the scene. A BASICS doctor came across the incident and stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “It was reported to ambulance crews when they arrived on scene that a van and a car had been in collision. Immediately after the collision, a cyclist went through the scene and subsequently collided with debris.

“The driver of the car, a woman, was trapped in the vehicle and had sustained a head injury and arm injury in the collision. Ambulance staff administered pain relief to the woman to stabilise her condition whilst the fire service worked around the medics to carefully release her from the wreckage. Once extricated, the woman was immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being taken by land ambulance to Hereford Hospital.

“The cyclist sustained a nasty hand injury and deep lacerations to both legs and right arm. Ambulance staff dressed the cyclists’ wounds before conveying them to the same hospital for further treatment.

“The van driver was checked over by the doctor at the scene but was unhurt and did not require hospital treatment.”

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Tuesday 16^th September 2014 – 8.00pm – Claire Brown.

A team of medics from the ambulance service delivered pre-hospital trauma care to a critically injured motorcyclist following a collision near the Snowdome in Tamworth during rush hour this evening.

The incident happened on River Drive in Tamworth shortly before 5.00pm (Tuesday). An ambulance, a community paramedic, a paramedic area support officer, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board and a second Midlands Air Ambulance from Tatenhill attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The motorcyclist, a man believed to be in his 30s, had left the road and come off his bike before colliding with the central reservation railings and road signs. His bike, which came to rest further down the road, had burst into flames.

“When ambulance staff arrived on scene, they found a number of bystanders providing excellent first aid to the seriously injured motorcyclist. One of the bystanders was an off duty ambulance technician from Birmingham.

“Upon assessment, medics found the man had sustained nasty chest and abdominal injuries as well as multiple limb fractures.

“As a team, ambulance staff worked to stabilise the man’s injuries and condition by administering advanced analgesia and fluids. Due to the nature of the man’s injuries, the doctor took the decision to sedate the man at the roadside. The man was fully immobilised and his wounds were dressed before he was airlifted from the scene by helicopter to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for surgery and emergency treatment. The MERIT doctor travelled in the air ambulance to continue treatment on the critically injured man en route.”

 

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Tuesday 16^th September 2014 – 7.15pm – Claire Brown.

A motorcyclist who ended up trapped beneath the tow-bar of a 4×4 pulling a trailer has sustained injuries described as ‘life changing’ in Coventry this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Leamington Road in Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry at around 3.30pm (Tuesday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and medics from the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire air base attended the incident in a land vehicle due to the helicopter being off line.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Ambulance staff arrived to find a motorcyclist, a man believed to be in his 30s, who was trapped underneath the tow-bar connecting the 4×4 with the trailer. Once released from under the vehicle by ambulance staff, the man was assessed and found to have sustained significant lower limb injuries including fractures and a suspected fractured pelvis.

“Ambulance staff and the medics worked as a team to administer pain relief to help stabilise the man before he was immobilised with a neck collar, scoop stretcher and splints.

“The man was taken by land ambulance on alert to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a major trauma centre, for further emergency treatment on his life-changing injuries.

“No one else was injured in the collision.”

 

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