In a heart-stopping moment that would terrify any parent, two quick-thinking children from West Yorkshire became real-life heroes when their father collapsed with a sudden cardiac arrest at their family home.
The Moment Every Parent Fears
Eleven-year-old Sonny and his nine-year-old sister Tilly were faced with every child's worst nightmare when their 37-year-old dad, Chris, suddenly collapsed and stopped breathing. What happened next was nothing short of miraculous.
YouTube Training Saves a Life
Despite their young ages, both children remembered crucial CPR techniques they had learned from watching YouTube videos. While Sonny immediately called 999 for emergency services, Tilly began performing chest compressions on her unconscious father.
"I just started doing CPR because I'd seen it on YouTube," Tilly recounted. "I was really scared but I knew I had to help Daddy."
Emergency Dispatcher Guides Young Heroes
As Sonny remained on the line with the emergency operator, he relayed instructions to his sister, helping her maintain the life-saving compressions until paramedics arrived at their Birkenshaw home.
The children's mother, Jodie, was at work during the incident and received the terrifying news that would change their family forever.
Medical Miracle Against the Odds
Chris was rushed to Leeds General Infirmary where doctors worked tirelessly to save his life. Medical professionals confirmed that without his children's immediate intervention, Chris would almost certainly have died.
"The speed and effectiveness of the CPR performed by Chris's daughter gave him the best possible chance of survival," explained one of the attending paramedics. "For children so young to remain so calm and act so decisively is extraordinary."
A Family Forever Changed
Chris has since made a remarkable recovery and is now back home with his heroic children. The family has spoken out about their experience to encourage other families to learn basic first aid.
"I owe my life to my amazing children," Chris said emotionally. "They were absolutely incredible. Every parent should teach their kids these vital skills - you never know when you might need them."
The remarkable story serves as a powerful reminder that even the youngest family members can become lifesavers when equipped with the right knowledge and courage.
