29/08/2026
Yesterday, 28th August, marked the third anniversary of my heart attack and cardiac arrest at Leeds General Infirmary.
For a few minutes I left this world while a room full of strangers fought hard to bring me back. Two broken ribs and seventeen hours later, I woke up in ICU feeling very scared โ and very happy that I still had the chance to feel scared.
I will be forever thankful to the NHS, everyone at the LGI, the bystanders, and those who helped me at the roadside in Marsden.
Three years on, a group of fantastic people โ Marsden Defibs โ supported by the brilliant community of Marsden, along with businesses and charities across Huddersfield, have installed 16 new defibrillators, with two more still to be placed in targeted locations across the village. We have also trained more than 400 people in how to use a defibrillator and deliver CPR.
Our aim was, and still is, to give everyone in the community of Marsden and the thousands of visitors we welcome each year a fighting chance of survival if they suffer a cardiac arrest.
The work continues. We now have a ten-year plan to support, maintain and renew the defibrillators, pads and batteries.
I cannot describe the overwhelming gratitude and happiness I feel for those who were there when I needed them most, and for everyone who has supported our defibrillator project.
Jenny Dobbin Barraclough John Spikings Joanne Watson Yorkshire Ambulance Service Charity Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust Paul Davies MP Jason McCartney Kara Ali for Colne Valley West Craig Grimes Harry McCarthy
