Couple Meets the Team Who Brought Husband Back to Life

A Bowen couple has reunited with the emergency responders who helped save a life after a sudden and terrifying medical emergency at their home.

When Bowen resident Athol Kennedy suddenly mentioned to his wife, Christine Snell-Kennedy, that he couldn't feel a pulse, her response was "well, you're still breathing?"

As she spoke, Athol's hand slumped from his neck and he became unresponsive.
Realising the seriousness of the situation, Christine acted immediately, dragging her husband from the bed onto the floor and commencing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while calling Triple Zero (000).

Emergency services were dispatched straight away, and local fire officers and paramedics arrived within minutes. On arrival, the crews took over advanced life-saving care as Athol’s condition remained critical.

Thanks to the early and effective CPR provided by Christine, followed by two defibrillation shocks administered by emergency responders, Athol was successfully resuscitated.

In a heartfelt moment of gratitude, Athol and Christine recently visited the Bowen Ambulance Station to meet the people responded on the day. The visit provided an opportunity for the couple to personally thank the crew whose quick actions and professional response played a vital role in saving Athol’s life.

The reunion served as a powerful reminder of the importance of immediate CPR, early defibrillation, and the dedication of local emergency services, whose swift response can make the difference between life and death.

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Emergency Medical Dispatcher Cameron Hobbs, Christine Snell-Kennedy, Athol Kennedy, paramedics Georgia Walkley and Jonathan Smith. Photo supplied

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