Son, 10, praised for calm call to 999

Jan 19 2008 by Madeleine Brindley, Western Mail

A 10-YEAR-OLD boy has been praised for the “cool and collected” way he raised the alarm when his mother collapsed.

Alexander Pritchard, a pupil at Ysgol Bro Allta, in Ystrad Mynach, dialled 999 and gave ambulance staff a clear, concise description of her symptoms. He was at home in Tir y Berth, Hengoed, with Alison Davies when she suffered a seizure.

Helen Difranco, at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said, “He rang for his mum who was having an epileptic fit and his courage and demeanour on the phone were excellent. I took him through the procedures and gave him the necessary advice before the paramedic arrived and I thought bless him, he has done really well.

“He didn’t panic at all. He should get recognition for his outstanding bravery and his mature approach.”

Ms Davies said, “I just collapsed – Alex said it looked as though I was dead. But he rang 999 and talked the lady through what had happened and he went and got a neighbour. I’m very proud of him. It must have been very frightening because it has never happened to me before but he said, ‘I knew what to do, Mum.’”