News stories

The family of a woman who collapsed while walking her dog in Hodge Hill has praised a Heartlands Hospital worker whose quick actions helped to save her life.

Wellbeing Hub Coordinator Naima Shaharyar was driving along Coleshill Road to begin a late shift when she saw Elayne collapse in the street.

Naima immediately stopped to help and quickly realised that Elayne was in cardiac arrest. She began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and calmly directed members of the public who had stopped to assist, helping to ensure that CPR continued effectively until the emergency services arrived.

Elayne’s family was later told that the CPR she received had been vital in saving her life. She is now recovering and looking forward to attending her granddaughter’s wedding before returning to Canada.

After discovering that Naima worked at Heartlands Hospital, Elayne’s family wrote to the Patient Experience Team to thank her for her actions.

Elayne’s son, Richard, said: “My mother lives in Canada for part of the year, but also comes to the UK for a few months each year to spend time with family. Unfortunately, I wasn’t present when this happened, but those who witnessed the incident said that Naima was outstanding throughout.

“She encouraged and guided another bystander who was understandably nervous, making sure CPR continued correctly before stepping straight back in herself. We have since been told that the CPR my mother received was absolutely vital in saving her life.

“The fact that my mother is here today and recovering means everything to us. As a family, we cannot put into words how grateful we are to Naima. What she did wasn’t simply a kind gesture; she stepped in at a critical moment when someone needed urgent help.

“Because of that, my mother has been given the opportunity to continue being part of our lives. Naima will always hold a special place in our family’s hearts.”

Naima said: “I was just in the right place at the right time and knew I had to do whatever I could to help. It was a very frightening situation, but if it had been a member of my family, I would have wanted someone to do the same. I’m so pleased to hear that Elayne is doing so well.

“I’m incredibly touched by the family’s kind words and wish Elayne all the very best as she continues her recovery.”

Dr Rifat Rashid, Hospital Executive Director at Heartlands Hospital, said: “I am incredibly proud of Naima and of the calm, compassionate way in which she responded in such a critical situation.

“Her actions demonstrate the enormous difference that early CPR can make when someone suffers a cardiac arrest. I am pleased to hear that Elayne is recovering well and spending valuable time with her family.”