A moving tribute by Sara's husband.
‘She felt better just because I was back in the room. That was the last thing she ever said to me…’ An account from a loving husband.
‘On Thursday 27 October 2022, my life changed forever. My beloved wife, Sara, passed away after a sudden cardiac arrest. She was just 47 years old.
‘Sara lived with Sphrintzen-Goldberg syndrome – a rare genetic condition that affected her heart, muscles, and bones. Despite the challenges she faced, including multiple heart surgeries, a metal mitral valve, and a pacemaker, she lived with grace, humour, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone who knew her.
‘That day had been ordinary. We’d spent it shopping, tidying the house, and enjoying each other’s company after a weekend away in our caravan. Sara took her usual afternoon nap, and when she woke, she felt a little light-headed. We thought it was a combination of her just awaking from a nap and the unseasonably warm and humid October weather we were having.
‘We sat down with a cup of tea and watched the final episode of Doc Martin, one of our favourite shows. Halfway through, she turned to me and said, “I’m feeling better now… now that you’re back in the house.” Moments later, she gasped for breath, had what looked like a seizure, and collapsed in my arms.
‘I did everything I could – CPR, calling 999, trying to keep her with me. The first ambulance crew arrived quickly, followed by a second, and then Devon Air Ambulance. I’ll never forget the sight of the helicopter overhead, or the calm professionalism of the crew as they worked tirelessly to save her.
They didn’t give up. For 45 minutes, they fought for her life. They kept me informed, treated me with compassion, and treated Sara with dignity. Eventually, they managed to find a faint pulse and airlifted her to Dorset County Hospital.
‘Sara spent three days in intensive care. She was sedated at first, then gently allowed to wake. But her heart, already so fragile, couldn’t recover from the strain. On Sunday 30 October, she passed away peacefully.
‘The doctors explained that Sara had suffered a Chiari Malformation – a rare and sudden complication linked to her condition. There was nothing anyone could have done. And while the pain of losing her is something I carry every day, I also carry deep gratitude.
‘Gratitude for the eighteen beautiful years I had with her. Gratitude for the care she received. And gratitude for Devon Air Ambulance, who gave her every possible chance and treated her with such humanity.
‘In memory of Sara, I want others to know how vital the Air Ambulance service is. They were there for us in our darkest hour. Supporting them means giving other families the same chance, the same hope, when every second counts.
‘Sara was the light of my life. I miss her more than words can say. But I know she’d want her story to help others. That’s why I’m sharing it now.’
We’re very grateful to Rob for sharing his story and memories with us of a very difficult day. If you have been touched by our service, we would like to hear from you. Our patient and Family Support Team are also available to lend support in the aftermath of an incident.
