Quick-thinking by first responders in Dublin Airport saved the life of a man who collapsed in Terminal 1.
The incident unfolded last October when David McMillan was travelling with his companion Alastair Hamilton to Uganda.
After feeling unwell, David collapsed and was later taken to the Mater Hospital having suffered a serious cardiac event.
He was taken to hospital after Dublin Airport Police and Fire officers responded immediately using one of the 50 defibrillators located around the airport to administer a series of shocks to revive him.
David said: "I literally survived to tell the tale because of the swift action and professional training of the airport’s first responders Sgt. Keith Pedreschi and Paramedic Brendan Conway.
"I’m here today because of them and I want to sincerely thank them and all those at Dublin Airport who took such good care of me.
“I know that, had this event occurred while I was travelling to the airport or even while on board the aircraft, the outcome could have been very different.
"It really is wonderful to be here today and have the opportunity to thank my life savers in person."
Dublin Airport Chief Fire Officer Gerry Keogh said it is hugely rewarding when a passenger walks through the door to thank them for saving his life.
He said: “The airport defibrillator programme began in 2003 and since then not only have we managed to save 28 lives, but we have also raised CPR and defibrillator awareness both in Dublin Airport and with the 100 other companies located on the campus.
“We are delighted to welcome David and Alastair back to Dublin Airport. It’s a testament to the training, professionalism and team work of airport first responders that David is here today, looking fit and well, and in a position to meet those who saved his life.”
