A PARAMEDIC is calling for islanders to learn CPR following unexpected deaths caused by Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS).

Kelly McLoughlin, from Canvey, will host a charity night to raise awareness for SADS, the sudden unexpected death of adolescents and adults, whilst raising cash for the charity SADS UK.

The 34-year-old said: “SADS UK was the one charity which I felt most connected to professionally. We’ve dealt with far too many cases of young preventable cardiac deaths.

“Even though we’re trained to cope, it’s still hard, there are definitely moments where I’m left thinking: ‘I can’t believe that just happened’.

“Recently, we had a gentleman drop to the floor and suffer a cardiac arrest. He had no previous cardiac issues - this is how SADS can hit people. It could be anyone and can also affect children.

“Miraculously, after ten minutes of us arriving and assisting him, he was back up on his feet.

“There are other times when by the time we’re alerted, we just can’t get to them quick enough. It’s so sad when you try to revive someone, but you can’t do anymore to help.”

SADS UK has been working to put lifesaving equipment in place, having placed over 200 defibrillators and trained over 2,000 people in Essex in CPR and the use of the defibrillator.

Canvey residents are being urged by Kelly to learn CPR and familiarise themselves with the locations of Canvey defibrillators.

She continued: “It’s so important the public know how to help in these scenarios. Early intervention is life changing. If you see someone suffering a cardiac arrest and CPR is carried out before we get there this increases their survival rate and their quality of life.

“We work alongside the Canvey First Responders and I can’t imagine Canvey without them, but as volunteers they can’t always be on the scene.

“Similarly, if we’re in Southend it can take around 15 to 20 minutes to get to Canvey. If the community is more aware of how they can help, the more they will help each other.”

The charity night, which will be held on April 5 at Canvey Island Football Club, will start at 6pm and finish around 1am. Entry costs £10.

For children under 14 entry is free.