The parents of two-year-old Theo have praised firefighter Lee Cridland as a hero after he saved their son’s life during a severe seizure at their home in Blackfield.
Lee, who serves as a co-responder with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS), was the first to arrive following an early morning 999 call. He quickly provided vital oxygen and emergency care that stopped Theo’s seizure before the ambulance reached the scene.
Theo has a history of seizures, but thanks to Lee’s prompt intervention, the toddler avoided hospitalisation. Theo’s mother, Jamie, said: “Where we lived before, we had to wait an hour for help to arrive, which meant Theo ended up in paediatric intensive care. This time, Lee was here within minutes and managed to stop the seizures – something that has never happened before. Theo was home the next day. We are so grateful.”
Just days after the incident, Theo and his parents visited Lee at Hardley fire station to personally thank him. A healthy and happy Theo was a stark contrast to the frightening early hours of the emergency.
Lee said: “It was brilliant to see Theo looking so well. We don’t always hear the outcomes of the incidents we attend, so knowing he was home the next day meant the world.”
Lee’s lifesaving actions were officially recognised at a recent HIWFRS Medical Response event, where over 70 firefighters received certificates for their dedication as co-responders and cardiac responders.
Station Manager Andy Walford commended Lee’s efforts: “Lee’s quick thinking and professionalism made a real difference to Theo and his family. Our co-responders play a critical role in rural communities — often arriving before an ambulance and providing lifesaving care.”
The Co-Responder Scheme is a partnership between HIWFRS and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS). Specially trained firefighters respond rapidly to life-threatening medical emergencies in rural areas, delivering Immediate Emergency Care (IEC) for heart attacks, seizures, and other serious incidents before paramedics arrive, significantly improving survival chances.
To support your local heroes, visit www.hantsfire.gov.uk for more information.
Originally published by UKNIP.
