Client: Awards
Date: April 07, 2011 ​

On February 17, 2010 while aboard a Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) bus, Sandra Giffin experienced a sudden cardiac arrest due to a pre-existing heart condition. High school student Erin Sachs, seated nearby, noticed what was happening and immediately came to Sandra’s aid.

Without hesitation, Erin assessed Giffin’s condition and determined that she was not breathing and did not have a pulse. She immediately opened her airway and gave two quick breaths, as she had previously been taught in school. She then instructed her father to take over the breaths for her so she could start chest compressions, which she continued for three minutes until Giffin started breathing on her own. BCAS paramedics arrived quickly and transported Giffin to St. Paul’s Hospital where she later received an implanted defibrillator.

A cardiac arrest victim is four times more likely to survive if they receive bystander CPR, however this basic procedure is not performed in approximately 85 per cent of all cardiac arrest cases.

The Vital Link Award is presented by BCAS to members of the public who are involved in saving a life through CPR efforts. The award recognizes the actions of the individual, raises awareness about the benefits of CPR and encourages the public to get training in this lifesaving skill.

The award was presented to Sachs on April 6, 2011 at West Point Grey Academy in front of the school’s First Responder team. Her father, Mark Sachs, also received a medal for his role, however could not attend the presentation. The patient, Sandra Giffin, was also in attendance and had a few encouraging words for the class.

For More Information
News Release: Vancouver Teen Recognized for Saving Stranger’s Life