'This man rescued my son when he started turning blue'

A mother has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to a volunteer emergency responder who rescued her son, reuniting with him recently at a BBC event. Jessica Martin recounted how her 14-month-old son, Lenny, suddenly stopped breathing during a birthday party in Horsham, West Sussex, on 22 November.

As Lenny began having seizures and his skin turned blue, an ambulance was called immediately. Ms Martin, from Crawley, described how a remarkable volunteer from the South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb), Mark Marney, arrived within three minutes and expertly managed the emergency.

There was something about Marks presence and confidence. When he looked at me and said, 'I've got this,' I felt an immediate sense of relief, she shared.

Ms Martin admitted she hadnt caught Mr Marneys name at the hospital, East Surrey Hospital, and later discovered he was volunteering his time. My husband and I were in total disbelief that someone would dedicate his own time, on a Saturday, to help complete strangers. It was extraordinary, she said.

Seeking to thank him personally, Ms Martin posted on Facebook to find Mr Marney, calling him a hero for his calmness during one of the most traumatic moments of their lives.

Mr Marney, a former Royal Navy aircraft engineer from Midhurst, told BBC Radio Sussex, Luckily, Lenny was a tough little boy. Lenny spent one night in Redhill hospital and is now under close medical observation. Thankfully, he has not had any further seizures, though the cause remains unknown.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms Martin said, Marks kindness and selflessness saved my sons life. Our family came so close to losing him that day.

Author's Commentary: The Impact of Volunteer Emergency Responders

The story of Lenny Martin highlights the critical role that volunteer emergency responders play in saving lives. In Horsham, West Sussex, a rapid response by Mark Marney, a Secamb volunteer, directly prevented a potential tragedy when 14-month-old Lenny stopped breathing during a birthday party.

Ms Martin's account emphasizes not only the technical skill required in such emergencies but also the calm and confident demeanor of responders, which can provide immediate reassurance to families in crisis. Mr Marney’s voluntary commitment, arriving within three minutes and providing expert care, underscores the value of community-based emergency services.

While the cause of Lenny’s medical episode remains unknown, the incident demonstrates the life-saving difference that trained volunteers can make. It also raises awareness of the importance of supporting and recognizing these individuals, whose actions often go unheralded.

Ultimately, this event serves as a reminder of both the fragility of life and the extraordinary impact of timely intervention by dedicated volunteers. Families like the Martins are direct beneficiaries of such selfless service, highlighting the need for continued investment in volunteer emergency programs.

Sources:

• 'This man saved my son when he turned blue'