FIVE year old Glen Innes boy Nathan Fenton’s cool and calm actions helped save his mum’s life earlier this year after she suffered a life-threatening medical emergency at home.
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Nathan was recognised as a “Triple Zero Hero”, and was presented with a NSW Ambulance children’s Star Award on Monday, June 27 in front of his schoolmates, teachers and very proud mum.
Nathan’s mum Kathleen suddenly fell ill on the day before Nathan was due to start his first day of kindergarten at St Joseph’s School in Glen Innes.
When Kathleen called out to Nathan for his help, he went and got the phone and assisted his mum in calling Triple Zero (000) and asking for an ambulance.
Attending Paramedics Peter Adams and Penelope Little responded to the medical emergency and travelled lights and siren to the family’s Glen Innes residence.
When paramedics arrived, it was very obvious Kathleen was critically ill and fighting for her life and that they had to work quickly.
Nathan’s role at the scene was vital and with no other adult in the house, he took control.
Nathan was too short to reach the front door key pad and so directed paramedics to the back door which he was able to unlock.
Paramedics Peter Adams said Nathan’s calm demeanour was vital in saving his mother’s life.
“Nathan was so calm and was able to answer all of our questions and he provided vital information about his mum’s recent health, he gave us key information that assisted us and hospital staff, giving us the best opportunity to help his mum,” he said.
“His actions were the perfect example for the community, particularly young children, as to what to do in an emergency.
“He demonstrated wisdom beyond his years and helped save his mum’s life.”
Kathleen was retrieved by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Tamworth Base Hospital.
She has no recollection of the medical emergency that took place in her home but has made an excellent recovery and has now returned home to be with her family.
Kathleen is so proud of her young son and knows that had the medical emergency occurred the next day, when Nathan was at school, the outcome may have been very different.
“He is my little hero,” she said.
Glen Innes Station Officer John Adams emphasised the importance of teaching children to contact Triple Zero (000), and drilling them on such details as their telephone number and address.
Children can learn more by downloading the Triple Zero Kids’ Challenge which is free in either computer or mobile phone app format.
Visit kids.triplezero.gov.au for further information.
