IMOGEN Donaghy owes her life to a brickie who used CPR to resuscitate her when she went into cardiac arrest.
It is almost a year since Ms Donaghy needed to be resuscitated 11 times by Adrian Rowe and paramedics, who were quick to arrive on scene.
It just so happened that Mr Rowe had done a refresher cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course two days prior.
“Every doctor Imogen’s seen since then says she shouldn’t be here,” Mr Rowe said.
“CPR worked a miracle.”
Mr Rowe has no hesitation in calling on everyone to learn CPR.
“If a dumb bricklayer can do it, anybody can.”
Redland Bay ambulance station officer-in-charge Peta Thompson said calling triple zero (000) was the first step in an emergency.
She said CPR was a basic skill, comprising chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth, that people could learn.
“When it comes to CPR, time is of the essence,” she said. “Being able to administer CPR can significantly increase someone’s chances of survival.
“It’s the single biggest thing you can do to help someone.”
Queensland Ambulance Service will be at Victoria Point Shopping Centre on Saturday, June 17 and Friday, June 23 to create awareness and encourage people to learn CPR using mannequins.
Paramedics will be at the sessions from about 9am to 3pm to demonstrate CPR and answer questions.
Ms Thompson said the sessions might also encourage people to take part in certified CPR or first aid courses.