Quick-thinking first aiders from St John Ambulance Cymru saved the life of a runner who collapsed near the finish line of the Porthcawl 10K. Chris Edwards, 39, had gone into sudden cardiac arrest just metres from the end of the race. Volunteers rushed to his side, performing CPR and using a defibrillator to restart his heart — actions which proved lifesaving.

When Chris lined up at the start of the Porthcawl 10K earlier this summer, he felt confident. An experienced runner, he’d trained well, eaten properly, and prepared like he always had. But what he didn’t expect was that he would collapse just metres from the finish line, and that his life would be saved thanks to the quick actions of St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers.

Chris recalls nothing unusual about the race until the final stretch.

he told Sam Cook in an interview for the upcoming St John Ambulance Cymru podcast, Just in Case: Stories from St John.

Chris had gone into cardiac arrest. What happened next, he only knows from what others have told him, including the St John Ambulance Cymru team who sprang into action.

Chris spent nine days in the hospital undergoing tests, including an MRI and CT scan. Doctors discovered a genetic heart condition that meant one of his arteries was being partially blocked. He’s now awaiting surgery in London.

Despite the ordeal, Chris is surprisingly upbeat and incredibly grateful.

He says the experience has made him far more aware of the importance of first aid and how vital trained volunteers are at events like the Porthcawl 10K.

His life was saved thanks to the immediate actions of St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers, who recognised he had gone into cardiac arrest and began CPR straight away. A defibrillator was also used to restart Chris’s heart, giving him the best possible chance of survival.

He’s already seen the impact of his story.

He also supports the Justin Edinburgh 3 Foundation, named after the late football manager who died following a cardiac arrest abroad.

Chris hopes to one day meet the people who saved his life and to give back by sharing his story.

When asked what he’d say to someone considering a first aid course, his answer is simple:

St John Ambulance Cymru provides lifesaving support at events across Wales and delivers first aid training to people of all ages. To get involved, book training, or support their work, visit www.sjacymru.org.uk.