A taxi driver has been praised after his quick-thinking helped save the life of a passenger who had fallen ill.
When Castell Cabs driver Robert Withers attended Senghenydd Health Centre on a routine job to pick up a passenger on Thursday February 6, he never expected to play a role in saving a life.
Robert’s passenger suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest shortly after getting into the vehicle, and needed urgent medical assistance.
Quick-thinking Robert ran into the health centre to fetch help, and Dr David Minton rushed out to resuscitate the gentleman.
Humble Robert, 43, from Trecenydd, said he was simply glad to have been able to help.
Robert, who is a taxi driver licensed by Caerphilly County Borough Council, recalled: “When I arrived at the health centre I opened the door for the gentleman and helped him into the car as he was on sticks.
“He struggled to get his second leg in, and as I helped him he took his last breath and fell on my shoulder. I asked him if he was okay but there was no response.
“I ran into the health centre to get help and asked the receptionist to get a doctor.
“He came out to the car with me and asked me to go around to the driver’s side and help him lower the seat down. The doctor then resuscitated the gentleman and brought him back to life.
“The practice nurse came out with a defibrillator and oxygen
mask and I stepped back so they could treat him. After a couple of minutes he regained consciousness.”
The patient was eventually transported by ambulance to hospital, where he is recovering.
Robert added: “I’ve been a driver for ten years. This is the first time anything like this has happened and hopefully it will be the last.
“It was a traumatic experience but you put that to one side and try and assist where you can.
“I’m glad that the gentleman appears to be making a recovery and it was a
pleasure to be able to help.”
Dr David Minton said of the incident: “Robert was extremely helpful. His quick-thinking to run in and get us certainly did help.
“Robert stayed at the scene and offered to drive the patient down to
where an air ambulance was scheduled to land.
“We’d like to thank him for his efforts.”
Cllr Harry Andrews, leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “There’s no question that Robert has gone above and beyond the call of duty with his actions.
“His rapid response to get medical attention significantly aided this gentleman who had fallen ill.
“I commend Robert and the staff of Senghenydd Health Centre for
everything they have done.”