After the miracle…

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month - so I wanted to share the stories of six amazing survivors whose portraits I took, showcasing the items that reflect the amazing second chances they’ve had since beating the odds and surviving cardiac arrest. You can see their portraits below.

I took the photos as part of my research for How to Save a Life which was itself inspired by my experience of giving CPR to my partner. This is the perfect time to discover how quick and simple it is for you to learn CPR, with options for online or face-to-face.

Plus you can read the stories below and do visit the SCA UK Facebook page to discover even more inspiring examples of survival!

Charlie

‘Oscar’s drawing represents my family, including my granddaughter Tallulah. To be here watching one growing up and another born is literally the most miraculous thing about surviving.’

Helen

‘My necklace signifies that I will continue living and growing for years to come. It was bought by my husband after my cardiac arrest. The heart shape reminds me of what happened in a good way, how far I have come and how much I am loved.’

Ann

The bracelet she’s holding was a gift from her two grandsons. ‘Five years on I feel good in myself, mentally and emotionally. A day at a time, I don't look too far ahead, and that's quite sufficient for me.’

Charlotte

‘I have placed 13 defibrillators with my husband in our local area. We are now “heartsafe” meaning we have a defibrillator every 700 metres in my town. So the defibrillator signifies our achievement in saving other potential lives for many years to come.’

Chris

‘The mug was a present from my granddaughters just after my 50th, so it’s very special for that reason. I should not have been here for my 50th, but here I am. You hear about people not wanting to reach 50, but in my case, I was over the moon.’

Willem

‘The wooden cutting board was a gift from my son and it’s my reminder of what I could have missed had I not survived my arrest. Seeing my son grow up and having the time to spend with him is priceless.’