PC's swift actions saves stroke victim's life

We love a happy ending.

While out patrolling his patch in Framwellgate Moor last Saturday night, PC Mikei Hubbard spotted an elderly gentleman who appeared to be struggling as he walked along Finchale Road.

Concerned for the man and wanting to ensure he got home safely, PC Hubbard stopped to speak to him and quickly realised something was drastically wrong.

Suspecting the man was having a stroke, PC Hubbard immediately helped him into his police vehicle and blue-lighted him to the University Hospital of North Durham where his fears were confirmed.

Thankfully, PC Hubbard’s speedy actions meant the 75-year-old, who was later able to introduce himself as resident Stewart Thomson, received specialist treatment and we are pleased to say is now out of hospital and expected to make a full recovery.

Mr Thomson, who is recovering at home under the expert care of his wife Janice, said the couple had gone for an evening walk after watching the football when he started to feel unwell.

The Army veteran said: “We came out and had just crossed the road when it just hit me and I was paralysed right down the right-hand side.

“Mikei saw me and came over and I said I just don’t feel well and he just knew what to do instantly and said he was going to get me to hospital.”

“The doctor said because I got there in that rapid time, they were able to get me the medicine quickly which means I should make a full recovery so I really cannot thank Mikei enough,” Mr Thomson added. “The doctor said to me that if he had not done what he’d done so quickly then it would have been a different story.

“I’ve told his bosses he deserves a medal.”

PC Hubbard added: “When I saw Stewart by the side of the road, something didn’t feel right and my instincts immediately kicked in.

“I pulled over to check on him, and after a quick conversation, it was clear something was very wrong and Stewart was seriously unwell.

“That’s when I made the decision to get him to A&E as quickly as possible so he could be assessed and treated.

“Since then, I’ve spoken with both Stewart and his wife, Janice, and I’m just grateful I was in the right place at the right time to help. It’s wonderful to see him doing well and on track to make a full recovery.”

PC Hubbard has now been nominated for a chief’s commendation.

Sergeant Mark Mallatratt, of the Framwellgate Moor and Meadowfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, praised PC Hubbard for his life-saving actions.

He said: “We are so relieved Mr Thomson is expected to make a full recovery and very proud of Mikei for acting so swiftly.

“Our first duty as police officers is to protect the public and it is without doubt that the actions of Mikei looking out for the members of his neighbourhood has prevented serious harm to the gentleman and very probably saved his life.”