According to Chronicle Live, eight-year-old Tyler and his four-year-old sister, Amber, were honored with bravery awards by the North East Ambulance Service on January 21st. Their courageous act on November 3rd involved saving their father, Jamie Miller, who had fallen into a diabetic coma at their home in County Durham, England.
While his younger sister remained understandably frightened, Tyler’s quick thinking led him to call emergency services. This decisive action proved crucial in saving his father’s life. The National Health Service reported that Jamie Miller was experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) prior to collapsing, a serious condition that arises when the body lacks sufficient insulin, as explained by the Cleveland Clinic. DKA can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
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Dispatcher Laura Bloomfield praised Tyler’s maturity and bravery, stating that his recognition of the emergency and subsequent call to 999 were remarkable for a child his age. Upon arrival, police and paramedics discovered Jamie Miller unconscious and struggling to breathe.
Paramedic Annie O’Sullivan recounted her conversation with Tyler, highlighting his composure and knowledge of his father’s condition. Tyler explained that his father had instructed him on what to do in such a situation. This preparedness underscores the importance of educating children about potential medical emergencies and empowering them to take action. Bloomfield echoed O’Sullivan’s sentiments, emphasizing Tyler’s exceptional bravery and maturity.
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Tyler’s actions not only saved his father’s life but also earned him a VIP experience with Durham Constabulary in December. The young boy, who has a passion for law enforcement, was picked up from school in a police car and given gifts.
Samantha Turnbull, Tyler’s mother, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that the outcome could have been fatal without Tyler’s intervention. She expressed immense pride in her son’s quick thinking and the recognition he received, especially considering his Global Developmental Delay. Turnbull believes that while Tyler may not fully grasp the magnitude of his actions, he understands their significance on some level. She concluded by emphasizing the family’s profound pride in Tyler’s heroism.
