Just minutes after being called to assist a runner who was feeling unwell during a recent sporting event at Umhlanga Pier, specialist nurse Sr Aneshree Govender found herself working against time to resuscitate a heart attack victim. This dramatic incident underlines the critical importance of prompt public response in emergencies.
Sr Aneshree Govender, the cardiac ward unit manager at Netcare uMhlanga Hospital, was onsite at the pier that day, managing the hospital’s World Heart Day initiative and providing free CPR lessons and cholesterol testing to the community. When called to assist, she found herself at the scene of a life-or-death crisis.
| Pic: When seasoned runner Chris Smith (left) went into cardiac arrest minutes after completing his 200th Parkrun, Sr Aneshree Govender (right), the cardiac ward unit manager at Netcare Umhlanga Hospital, leapt into action to provide lifesaving medical attention. Here, the two are pictured together at another event which Chris, who is recovering well, attended as a spectator. |
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Chris Smith, an experienced athlete who had just completed his 200th Parkrun, was the victim. “As someone who has completed seven Comrades Marathons and numerous cycle races, I consider myself in pretty good shape for a 61-year-old. I could never have imagined that I was about to have a heart attack,” Chris recalls.
“I had experienced some chest pains and remember taking it easy now and again, walking certain parts of the race. I managed to complete the run but then felt dizzy and went to sit under a tree. The last thing I remember is bending down to sit,” he recalls.
Chris’ wife was purchasing a cooldrink for him nearby when she saw him collapse and with the help of a concerned runner they swiftly sought medical assistance, returning with Sr Govender.
“Upon arrival, I could see that he was terribly unwell, and almost immediately, I began to see the signs of cardiac arrest, most notably his change in colour from normal to blue. I started with chest compressions, and his wife was able to assist me by providing airway support.
“Fortunately, there was an Automated External Defibrillator on site – a piece of emergency equipment that connects to a patient’s body in specific areas, analyses a person’s heart rhythm and delivers a shock to help re-establish an effective rhythm in the heart. This was brought quickly to the scene, and Chris responded after just one shock. We are not always so lucky,” notes Sr Govender.
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Once resuscitated, Chris was rushed by ambulance to Netcare uMhlanga Hospital, where he was stabilised and transferred to the intensive care unit. Following an angiogram, it was determined that Chris needed to remain at the hospital for coronary artery bypass surgery, where he continued to be cared for by Sr Govender throughout his stay.
“It was quite special for me, being able to care for Chris from the onset of his heart attack right through to his discharge,” notes Sr Govender.
Chris points out that he committed to his journey back to good health from the outset, working hard with his physiotherapist Umantha Naidoo who practises at the hospital, and now doing short walks at home. “I am not allowed to run for three months, but I can slowly start training again. We are aware of certain heart issues in the family, and in my case, it was my artery that let me down. Staying fit and active has been and will continue to be essential for my health,” says Chris.
“I feel blessed that things lined up the way they did that day and that I could receive help quickly. Aneshree is my hero – she saved my life, and my family and I am most grateful. I’m thankful to be here for my family, especially since my wife and I are expecting our second grandchild soon. This experience has certainly given me a renewed perspective on how precious life is and I thank God for providing the right people to assist me on the day,” he says.
Sr Govender emphasises the unpredictability of heart attacks, even among the fit, urging members of the public to be vigilant. “Heart attacks can happen at any time, even among the fittest of people, and it is important to take note of others who may be in physical distress.
“When dealing with a heart attack every minute counts, and immediate response by someone who is trained to perform CPR and to use an AED can mean the difference between life and death. If someone near you is suddenly unwell, don’t hesitate to call for professional help,” she concludes.
Ends
Notes to editor
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