Stranger’s First Aid Skills Save Ellenbrook Bottleshop Worker’s Life

An incredible act of heroism unfolded at a bottleshop in the Woodlake Village Shopping Centre, Ellenbrook, where a pharmacist’s quick thinking and recent training saved a man’s life. Joseph Cartledge, a father of two, suffered a heart attack while working on a Tuesday evening. Fortunately, Joshua O’Neil, a pharmacist who had just completed a CPR refresher course days earlier, was nearby.

Heroic Response Saves a Life

Upon noticing the emergency, O’Neil rushed to Cartledge’s aid. He began performing CPR immediately, continuing until paramedics arrived to take over. O’Neil later expressed how significant the training had been for him. “I’d actually done my CPR refresher training the Thursday before,” he reminisced. The pharmacist stated he remained calm in the face of urgency, putting his skills into action.

Recovery and Gratitude

Following the incident, Cartledge was admitted to the intensive care unit at Royal Perth Hospital and was placed in an induced coma. After his recovery, he was able to express his deep gratitude to O’Neil. “He’s a true legend, a life-saver, and a wonderful soul,” Cartledge remarked. The two met again on the following Saturday, where Cartledge thanked O’Neil for saving his life.

• Joseph Cartledge: father of two, heart attack survivor.
• Joshua O’Neil: pharmacist who performed CPR.
• Location: Woodlake Village Shopping Centre, Ellenbrook.
• Cartledge’s recovery in Royal Perth Hospital’s ICU.

Calls for Improved Access to Defibrillators

The incident sparked a discussion among bystanders and medical professionals about the need for better access to defibrillators in public places, especially pharmacies. O’Neil pointed out that situations requiring immediate medical attention can arise unexpectedly. “A defibrillator is a crucial step that could make a massive difference in terms of survival,” he emphasized.

In response to the community’s growing concern, the shopping centre announced it would install a defibrillator in the coming week. The importance of being prepared for emergencies was underscored by Cartledge’s son, who noted, “Anything can happen at any time. It’s good to love your parents and appreciate them while you can.”

This incident exemplifies how first aid skills, especially CPR, can be life-saving. It highlights the importance of community awareness and preparedness in critical situations.