‘Scared’ six-year-old calls ambulance to save mum

Young Heroine Saves Mother’s Life After Brain Bleed Emergency

Last summer, a dramatic event unfolded in Croydon when a 36-year-old mother, Carole, collapsed due to a severe brain bleed. Her six-year-old daughter, Pearl, stepped forward with remarkable courage, calling 999 and ensuring her mother received timely help.

At the time, Pearl and her four-year-old sister Amelia were at home. Carole had a seizure and lost consciousness, prompting Pearl to act. She had memorized the emergency number 999, driven by her deep affection for her mother. When Carole suddenly lost consciousness, Pearl confidently dialed the number, providing critical details to the call handler.

“She’s lying on the sofa… she’s not awake. Her eyes keep on opening and closing,” Pearl told the operator, describing the situation with calm clarity. She also mentioned her mother was foaming at the mouth and shaking, while confirming their address when asked.

Paramedic Charlotte Aisbitt arrived within minutes, lauding the girls’ calm demeanor and quick thinking. “Their bravery was extraordinary,” she noted, highlighting how Pearl’s clear communication helped expedite the response.

“I’m really, really scared,” Pearl admitted, her voice steady despite the fear. The call handler, Gen Hinds, reassured her: “Don’t be scared, we are coming.” Pearl followed instructions to check if her mother was breathing and confirmed the chest was rising and falling.

Aisbitt was joined by an ambulance crew shortly after arrival, adding to the swift action. “The girls were incredible – they saved their mum’s life,” she said, praising their composure. Even before paramedics arrived, the sisters helped organize “everything they would need for hospital,” according to Aisbitt.

Carole was treated in hospital where doctors discovered the life-threatening bleed. She has since made a full recovery and expressed immense pride in her daughters. “Pearl’s actions exceeded my expectations,” she said, reflecting on how the children’s composure in the crisis surprised her.

Stuart Crichton, LAS’s 999 operations director, emphasized the importance of teaching children emergency procedures. He encouraged parents to instruct their kids in essential skills, such as dialling 999, knowing the full address, and understanding when to seek help.

As a token of appreciation, the sisters were given a tour of an ambulance and shown life-saving equipment. Their bravery has become a local story, underscoring the power of quick thinking in critical moments. For more updates, follow BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or listen to BBC Radio London on Sounds.