AA man helps rescue a patient
Monday, 01 March, 2010
Picture shows duty operations manager Andy Hampton presenting Mark with his certificate of appreciation.
A roadside recovery man who came to the rescue and helped out paramedics treating a seriously ill man, has been commended for his actions.
Last Wednesday (24th Feb), Bedfordshire based AA patrol officer Mark Prentice, was invited along to the Bedford Office to be presented with a certificate of appreciation from the trust. Last month, paramedics from Kempston were called to a man who had collapsed in a van on the A421 Bedford bypass. Prior to their arrival, Mark saw the patient who was half hanging out of his van door went to offer his help. Mark said: "I approached the van and saw the man and he looked very unwell. I called 999 for an ambulance and comforted him until they arrived."
Duty operations manager Jim Farrell who attended the scene said: "On my arrival the man was in a serious conditions and required rapid treatment on the roadside. Mark was able to give me a very good history of what he had seen and done. He even got blankets and mats laid out on the floor to place the patient on."
On receiving his certificate, a very proud Mark said: "I am very pleased to be recognised by the ambulance service and I am glad I was in the right place at the right time. I have spoken to the patient since and he is making a full recovery." Anthony Garbacz, area manager for the AA commented on Mark's actions, he said: "Mark is a great patrol officer who always goes the extra mile, so thankfully, he was in the right place at the right time. He remained calm and composed in a difficult situation and we're delighted he's being commended for his actions."
Last Friday morning (26th February), Communications Manager Gary Sanderson received a call from the patient who heard about Mark's presentation. Jason Tulk, 37, who lives in Colmworth said: "It is excellent news that Mark was recognised for his part in saving my life back in January. My family and I owe everything to Mark and the responding ambulance staff, we all cannot thank them enough, they are all my heroes."
Jason is planning a special surprise for Mark in the near future.
