A final-year medical student saved the life of a runner who collapsed at the finish line of the Manchester Half Marathon, her university has revealed. The 35-year-old man suffered a cardiac arrest close to the end of the 13.1-mile race near Lancashire Cricket Club's ground in Old Trafford.
Megan McGillin, who is studying at the University of Manchester, was providing first aid cover at the event when she saw the man collapse. The university said he fell to the ground as he crossed through the finish line.
Immediate Response
McGillin recognised the signs of cardiac arrest within seconds, raised the alarm and began life-saving chest compressions while calling for additional help. As a wider medical team arrived, she continued working calmly under pressure, helping to apply defibrillator pads before handing over to colleagues leading the resuscitation effort.
The runner, who has not been named, was rushed to A&E and later transferred to intensive care. The university said he has since made a strong recovery after requiring extensive emergency treatment. He has now met McGillin in person to thank her for the role she played in saving his life.
Team Effort
Speaking about what happened, McGillin, from Northern Ireland, said: "When the runner collapsed, my training immediately kicked in and I focused on doing the basics as quickly and effectively as possible. It was a real team effort involving a number of healthcare professionals working together under pressure."
She added: "I'm incredibly grateful that the outcome has been so positive and that he's recovering well. Meeting him afterwards was very emotional and a powerful reminder of why we dedicate ourselves to learning these skills and helping others."
Recognition
Professor Margaret Kingston, Director of Undergraduate Medical & Dental Studies at the University of Manchester Medical School, said: "Megan responded with remarkable professionalism, composure and skill in an extremely challenging situation, and everyone involved is delighted to hear that the runner is making a good recovery."
The dramatic rescue highlights how the skills learned by future doctors can make the difference between life and death when every second counts. In 2023, McGillin led a campaign to raise awareness of organ donation during changes to Northern Ireland's organ donation laws and was recognised with an Inspirational Young Woman of the Year award.
