A 13-year-old girl from Beeston, Nottinghamshire has received a bravery award from EMAS. Brooke Clements came to her dad’s rescue when he became seriously unwell at home on 8 May 2024.
37-year-old Kieron Clements, who has lived with epilepsy for many years, credits Brooke for her actions that day, and his other two daughters Layla and Robyn (aged 12 and 11 respectively) for the help they have provided him when he’s been at his most vulnerable.
Kieron said: “If it weren’t for my kids, I don’t know what I’d do. They have saved me numerous times since they’ve been very little.”
Brooke’s 999 call on 8 May was answered by Emergency Medical Advisor Sophie Littlefair. She was so impressed with Brooke conducted herself, that she nominated Brooke for the EMAS Children’s Bravery Award.
Sophie said: “Brooke was absolutely brilliant and handled the call way better than most other people may have done in the same sort of situation.
“She was very cooperative and calm, being able to provide me with all the pertinent information that was needed.
“Brooke told me straight away that her dad was having a seizure, that he has a history of having seizures, and whether his behaviour coming out of the seizure was normal or not for him.
“This all ensured her dad Kieron received the appropriate help as quickly as possible.
“She kept me updated on how her dad was doing until the ambulance crew arrived.”
Arriving on scene to help Kieron was Paramedic Jonathan Burlace and Emergency Care Assistant Lisa Doyle.
Lisa said: “I could see at the scene that Kieron and Brooke had a very strong bond and were supporting each other.
“Brooke was so calm and an absolute star.
“The first time I witnessed a seizure was when I was 20-something and it frightened the life out of me.
“While I’m obviously more used to seeing people in these circumstances as part of my role, it’s even more impressive how Brooke has been able to manage her dad’s seizures in this way from a very young age.”
“When Brooke and her sisters were younger, Brooke would keep them calm while calling an ambulance.
“Not only do Brooke, Layla and Robyn call an ambulance and put me in the recovery position when I have really bad seizures, they also help me with the day-to-day things like shopping, maintaining a clean and tidy house, cooking when it involves the hob, and reminding me when I forget things.
“My girls have been by my side since they were very young and I’m so grateful for everything they do for me.
“I’m super proud of Brooke for receiving recognition for her 999 call, and I continue to be proud of all my daughters – they always work as a team to support each other and me.”
Brooke gave some important advice for children around her age for if they ever need to call for an emergency ambulance.
She said: "Try not to panic, pick up the phone, call 999, and listen to the instructions from the person in the control room.
"Also make the sure the patient is away from any sharp objects."