Heart-starting heroes

The quick thinking and first-aid training of colleagues at our West Wickham delivery office saved the life of postman, Tony Caggiaino, when he suffered a heart attack.

Tony collapsed while loading his delivery van at West Wickham in early September. He was discovered by friend and colleague, Steve Hurley, who raised the alarm and called an ambulance.

‘I went around the corner to give Tony some parcels to deliver and saw he had collapsed,’ said Steve. ‘I couldn’t take it in at first.’

While anxious staff waited for the ambulance to arrive, trained first-aider, another Steve, postman Steve Eames, was able to apply cardiopulmonary resuscitation. His prompt actions undoubtedly saved Tony’s life.

‘The story demonstrates the importance of having trained first aiders within Royal Mail,’ said Stephen Ryman, West Wickham delivery office manager. ‘Without Steve’s expertise, Tony wouldn’t be here today.’

Steve Eames says he would recommend everyone to train in first aid. ‘It’s the only time I’ve had to use my CPR training but I could remember what I needed to do. The emergency services also helped talk me through the process while we waited for the ambulance.’

Tony is now recuperating at home and he’s kicked a 40-a-day smoking habit too. ‘I really feel as if I have been given a new lease of life and I will be eternally grateful to my colleagues,’ he said.

‘If it wasn’t for them being in the right place at the right time, and having the training they have had, I might not be here.’

If you're interested in becoming a first aider, speak to your line manager for more information.