The inspirational Stockport couple, Dan and Joanne Thompson, who started Millie’s Trust after losing their daughter, Millie in a choking incident at a nursery, have been named First Aid Champions at St John Ambulance’s annual Everyday Hero awards.
Since the death of their young daughter (Millie Thompson) in a choking incident, Joanne and Dan have worked tirelessly to promote life saving education and training in first aid through their charity, Millie’s Trust. Their work has enabled parents and carers to attend heavily subsidised first aid awareness courses. They have also campaigned successfully to ensure that new nursery staff are trained in paediatric first aid.
Dan and Joanne were among nine winners at last night’s Everyday Heroes awards, which were supported by leading AED manufacturer, Physio-Control. The star-studded evening was hosted by Sky Sports presenter Kirsty Gallacher, whose father, golfer Bernard Gallacher, was saved with first aid when he suffered a cardiac arrest last year.
Sue Killen, CEO at the nation’s leading first aid charity, and one of this year’s judges said: ‘These remarkable people are an inspiration and their stories really show the difference that first aid can make. I hope they are all incredibly proud of their achievements and I would urge everyone to follow their example. Download the St John Ambulance app, go to our website, find us on social media – it’s so easy to learn the knowledge and skills you need to save a life.’
Kirsty Gallacher said: ‘It was an honour to be part of such an inspiring evening and humbling to be in the presence of so many extraordinary people. I know first-hand how valuable these skills are and I believe that everyone should take the time to learn some life saving first aid.’
The awards – which had a record number of entries this year – were held at the Lancaster London hotel, where guests were greeted with a drinks reception followed by a three course meal. The awards ceremony was followed by dancing. Celebrities who attended included Fabrice Muamba, Dr Dawn Harper, Michelle Heaton, Kimberley Garner, Charlie Webster, Allen Leech, and Donna Air.
Three mums who saved their babies following St John Ambulance’s campaign, The Chokeables, were presented with flowers during the ceremony. 41 parents have credited the campaign with helping them save their children’s lives during choking episodes.
