Sailor puts life-saving skills to work

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~

An HMCS Regina supply technician is being hailed for his heroic actions by his ship’s crew for administering life-saving CPR to a man in downtown Victoria last week.

On the morning of April 14, Cpl Christopher Pearson was travelling to work when at approximately 7 a.m. he came across an unconscious male lying on the ground at the corner of Douglas St. and Yates St. Cpl Pearson said the man had stopped breathing and appeared to be suffering from a drug overdose.

Using first aid training, he assessed the man’s medical condition and then administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation while a bystander called 9-1-1. The victim regained consciousness before emergency services arrived on the scene and was transported to hospital.

“When I arrived on the scene his body was like a limp noodle and he was unresponsive,” said Cpl Pearson. “After I administered CPR and saw that he had started breathing again, and EMS crews had arrived on the scene, it was a great feeling to know that I was able to help him out of a bad situation.”

Regina Coxswain, CPO1 Alan McNaul congratulated Cpl Pearson, noting his actions were symbolic of the “readiness of CAF personnel” to spring into and provide medical assistance when needed.

“His confidence and leadership were displayed when he established control of the medical emergency scene and performed CPR, potentially saving the life of a community member,” said CPO1 McNaul. “Cpl Pearson is a strong example of what leadership looks like regardless of rank or level within the Canadian Armed Forces.”

At press time further details about the incident and an update on the status of the victim were unavailable.