Pay attention to CPR training, says NESOP

Group photo of the recipient for the Canadian Forces Recognition Day at National Defence Headquarters Warrant and Sergeant Mess in Ottawa, Ontario on 16 June 2023. Photo credit: Corporal Bélynda Casse, Canadian Forces Support Group Ottawa-Gatineau

Peter Mallett
Staff Writer

When HMCS Vancouver’s member saw his friend experiencing a health emergency in December 2021, his military training kicked in.

A year later, Sailor First Class (S1) Charles Tucker received a Chief of Defence Staff Commendation and a BC Emergency Health Services Vital Link Award for saving the life of a former classmate. S1 Tucker reposted to HMCS Calgary recently but was with Vancouver when he performed the rescue on Dec. 19, 2021, during his vacation in Kelowna.

“I don’t really see myself as a hero but am indeed humbled and honoured to receive this award,” S1 Tucker said. “I hope anyone reading my story realizes the importance of getting proper CPR training. It could save the life of your best friend, family member or even a stranger.”

S1 Tucker is a 28-year-old Naval Electronic Sensor Operator (NESOP). He was visiting the home of his former high school classmate Tasia when she collapsed.

“When I came into the room and saw her convulsing, at first I thought she was playing a practical joke; she sometimes has a morbid sense of humour,” said S1 Tucker. “I soon realized something was terribly wrong.”

He immediately called 911, used his Canadian Armed Forces medical training, and performed CPR on Tasia with assistance from the dispatcher until the paramedics arrived and took over.

A surgeon operated on Tasia and inserted a pacemaker near her heart. S1 Tucker is happy to report she has since made a full recovery.

Tasia has since resumed her post-secondary education, while S1 Tucker said his story should be a lesson for everyone who thinks a CPR rescue will be smooth sailing.

“Do not treat the refresher lightly or as a day off; realize the utmost importance of paying attention during CPR training and give your full attention to the instruction so it sinks in,” he said. “Just like me, you may be the one performing the CPR and will need to be prepared to save your friend or loved one.”

While military members are required to have CPR Training refreshed every three years, St. John Ambulance offers a variety of CPR training courses here in Victoria and locations across the country, with registration available through their website:
www.sja.ca/en.

Group photo of the recepient for the Canadian Forces Recognition Day at National Defense Headquarters Warrant and Sergeant Mess in Ottawa, Ontario on 16 June 2023. Photo credit: Corporal Bélynda Casse, Canadian Forces Support Group Ottawa-Gatineau