After undergoing years of CPR training for work, teacher Alison Silva never thought the first time she’d use her skills would be to help save her husband’s life.
Gaston Silva, 50, was at home with his wife and children when he went into cardiac arrest.
“I just heard him make this noise like he was gasping for air and when I turned around, he was unconscious,” said Mrs Silva.
After calling triple zero, Mrs Silva began working on her husband, moving him to the floor and starting chest compressions.
Paramedics and Fire Rescue Victoria arrived and took over CPR, before Mr Silva was taken to hospital where he stayed for around 12 days.
On Thursday 29 July the couple reunited with the first responders who helped save his life in April.
“They were incredible and are the reason Gaston’s still here today. I take my hat off to all of them,” said Mrs Silva.
“I’m a teacher so I’ve had eight years of CPR training, so it helped me feel more confident to jump into action.
“I would recommend everyone get CPR training and know where to find the nearest AED.”
Ambulance Victoria Acting Sunbury team manager Jamie Joseph said knowing CPR, how to use an AED, and where your closest defibrillator is located are simple steps that could save a life.
