Nine-year-old, Jack Lowis has been hailed a first aid hero after saving his father from choking the day after learning first aid at his primary school, Prince Bishops Community Primary School in Coundon Grange.
Jack, who is more used to saving shots than saving lives as goalkeeper for Newton Aycliffe Juniors U10 Blacks, recalled what happened when he saw his father, Keith was struggling for breath: “I was playing on my iPad when heard my dad coughing really badly. “I went over to him and asked him if he was all right and he shook his head.
“I then asked him if he was choking and he nodded, so I gave him a couple of back-slaps and said I was going to call the ambulance. “But before I called I gave him a couple more back-slaps and it managed to dislodge the cereal that got stuck.”
Asked if he thought all children should be taught first aid, Jack said: “Definitely, because if it comes to something like what happened to me and my dad, then children without training might not know what to do.
“It’s a big life lesson to know what to do if someone is choking.” Writing on her Facebook page in the aftermath of the incident, Jack’s mam, Lisa said: “A few days ago, [husband] Keith choked on his breakfast.
“There was only him & Jack in the house. Jack sprang into action, and, realising his Dad was choking, gave him 5 back slaps.
“When that didn’t dislodge the blockage, he told Keith he was going to ring an ambulance.
“Before going for the phone, Jack tried again, giving more back slaps. Thankfully this worked and Keith was fine. All thanks to our amazing 9 year old boy.
“It turns out he was taught first aid by his school just the day before, specifically how to help people who were choking or had been scalded. Big up to Prince Bishops Primary staff! “Thankfully all turned out well but it could’ve all been so different if Jack didn’t know what to do. “He received a Pupil of the week award from school today for being our hero. Amazing little boy.”
Dad Keith said: “I’m so proud of Jack. His quick thinking and actions saved my life. He’s my little hero! Thanks must also go to the fantastic staff at Prince Bishops Primary School- who helped to teach Jack the first aid.”
Prince Bishops Headteacher, Mrs. Lynn George said: “We are incredibly proud that Jack was able to keep calm and remembered what he was taught so that he was able to save his dad’s life.
“It does demonstrate how important it is that children are taught First Aid and that they have the skills and knowledge to make the difference if the worst was to happen.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
