County celebrates members’ success

 

At St John Ambulance Kent's recent awards evening, hosted at Ashford headquarters, over 60 members from across the county came together to recognise the commitment and dedication of their colleagues.

A host of members were recognised during the ceremony but two of the evening's special awards were given in recognition of the fantastic commitment of two of the charity's younger members – 10-year-old Zoe Paolillo and 16 year old Jaimee Mallion.

Mallion, from Maidstone was presented with the prestigious Arnold Foreman Memorial Award for demonstrating excellent first aid treatment and care to a patient.

Whilst travelling to undertake part of her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, she was confronted by a two car head-on collision. Determined to help, she quickly manoeuvred one of the casualties into the recovery position and monitored his condition until she was able to pass his care over to the attending paramedic, who subsequently transported the patient to hospital.

No newcomer to being in the spotlight, in 2009, aged 15, she was awarded the charity's Alan Bourlet Award for overcoming personal injury, having fractured her spine in a sporting accident and being in constant pain with the potential of her joints dislocating at any time.

 

Paolillo, from the Isle of Sheppey, was presented with this year's Alan Bourlet Award.  Suffering from severe eczema due to an allergic reaction to grass, trees and plant pollen,  she displayed great courage and determination when she attended the Badger Summer Camp in 2010 and whilst away from home had to cope with her ongoing health issues, which involved treatment twice a day and at night.

John Hougham, commander of St John Ambulance Kent said:

'The evening was a great success and it was wonderful to bring so many people together in celebration of the great achievements of the charity across the county.  I would like to say a special ‘well done’ to both Zoe and Jaimee as young people are a vital element in our commitment to ensuring everyone who needs first aid should receive it.