In a remarkable display of quick thinking and decisive action, Mark Holmes, Stroke Ward Manager, saved the life of a man who collapsed and went into cardiac arrest in the reception area of the Louisa Martindale Building in Brighton.
Mark’s immediate recognition of the critical situation, as he noticed a woman holding her very unwell husband, led him to swiftly approach the couple. His actions are a testament to his dedication and commitment to patient care, embodying the core values of UHSussex.
Nathalie Pearson, Stroke Matron said: “Mark’s heroic moment to help save a life as well as his everyday actions as a valued colleague in our stroke ward has truly earned him Star of the Month.”
“Mark’s awareness of the initial situation in offering to help with his quick thinking, and decision making to grab a chair and rush to the discharge lounge was vital. Later that day the man who collapsed was awake with his family by his side. They were truly grateful of marks actions.”
In recognition of his extraordinary efforts, Mark received a certificate, prize, and a letter from Chief Executive Dr George Findlay. He is also in the running for the Star of the Year Award at the Trust’s annual recognition ceremony in 2025.
Reflecting on the award, Mark said: “I was very honoured to have received this award, I feel like I was just doing my job caring for patients. Although that man was not on my ward at the time, we still have a duty of care to all people no matter the situation.
“I am so thankful for my colleagues who were around at the time, including the amazing staff in the discharge lounge and the arrest team who came very quickly to perform CPR on the man. Teamwork, at its finest!”
The Star of the Month award recognises the commitment and dedication of staff members who give a service that is over and above what is expected of them in order to make a difference to patients, visitors and/or their colleagues.
They embody Trust values of compassion, communication, inclusion, respect, teamwork and professionalism.