Ambulance Volunteer Honored for Two Decades of Life-Saving Service

Stuart Little, a volunteer ambulance worker, has been commended for his two decades of service, during which he is credited with saving “countless lives.” His volunteering journey as a community first responder with the East of England Ambulance Service began on November 27, 2004. The 52-year-old, residing in Bicknacre near Danbury, Essex, has since attended approximately 4,000 emergency calls, dedicating 27,000 hours to his service. Speaking to the BBC, he expressed his “immense pride,” stating, “I hope the next generation are there to take over when my days are done.” Mr. Little’s initial exposure to this role occurred during his employment as a radio engineer for the ambulance service. He was motivated to contribute personally after overhearing a call handler guide an individual through CPR instructions via telephone. “I’m immensely proud of the role, being able to put the uniform on and do it,” Mr Little commented. He added, “I see smiles on faces of patients and families when we walk in the door and they know that somebody’s turned up to help, and I think that’s the key thing.” The volunteer recounted his most unforgettable incident from 2015, involving a three-year-old girl named Rosie who experienced a cardiac arrest at her home. Rosie’s mother, having participated in a life support course led by Mr. Little just one week earlier, applied the techniques he had taught her to perform life-saving CPR on Rosie before his arrival. Half a year later, the young girl successfully underwent a heart transplant and is currently flourishing with her family. Mr Little reflected, “When I started and was an inexperienced CFR, it was quite a scary world out there.” He continued, “Twenty years in, I don’t get so scared about things. I’m very passionate about it.” On the occasion of his 20-year anniversary, Mr. Little received commendation from Claire Ruddy, the ambulance trust’s community response manager. She remarked, “He sets a high standard for all volunteers, constantly attending courses to enhance his skills.” She further added, “Stuart has undoubtedly saved countless lives and continues to raise the profile of CFRs.”