Four Powell River men received Vital Link Awards from BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) for their efforts in saving a man who suffered a cardiac arrest.
According to Terry Dyer, unit chief of BC Ambulance Station 229 qathet, there was a gathering at the ambulance station on May 15 for a heartwarming presentation to honour four brave individuals – Rob Bombardir, Mark Winfield, Darryl Magnus Brown and Grant Thomas – who contributed to the successful resuscitation to a patient.
“Rob, Mark, Darryl and Grant gave Chris Coldham a chance at survival because they acted quickly and courageously,” said Dyer.
He said that on May 19, 2023, Coldham was at the north harbour in Powell River working on his boat when he collapsed. Dyer said his two friends, Thomas and Brown, called 911.
Bombardir, who works for a local yacht company, saw what was happening and ran over to help, said Dyer.
“Rob began cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and called out to his colleague, Mark Winfield, who has search and rescue experience,” said Dyer. “Mark took over CPR while Rob focused on keeping Chris’ airway open.
“They continued their lifesaving actions until first responders arrived. Thanks to the quick, coordinated actions of these four individuals, Chris is here with us today. The four people involved in this incident are receiving Vital Link Awards for their lifesaving actions.”
Dyer said BCEHS was proud to present the recipients with their awards, signifying that they were the ambulance service’s vital link in the emergency health care of British Columbians.
Coldham was unable to attend the award ceremony, but his wife, Edie, was in attendance to observe the presentation and thank the award recipients.
BCEHS presents Vital Link Awards to honour the actions of one or more bystanders at a cardiac arrest emergency. Nominations are made by BCEHS staff and presented to residents throughout the province.
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