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Nine-year-old Auckland girl saves mom’s life as daughter performs CPR and comforts autistic little brother during ordeal

Nine-year-old Auckland girl saves mom’s life as daughter performs CPR and comforts autistic little brother during ordeal

Sidney spoke to Herald about her heroism, saying that she was very worried about her mother and could not hold back her tears while the drama unfolded.

“My mother fell and hit the floor,” said the 4th grade student.

“I tried to wake her up, but she didn’t answer me.

“I felt uneasy.

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“I was going to call 111, but before I called, my uncle called and my father was with him. He was shocked when I told him that my mother became dizzy and fell to the floor. Then he said he was on his way, so I called an ambulance,” she said.

Sydney Salud, 9, from Papatoetoe, saved her mother's life when she collapsed by calling an ambulance and starting chest compressions.
Sydney Salud, 9, from Papatoetoe, saved her mother’s life when she collapsed by calling an ambulance and starting chest compressions.

“The woman (defendant) said that I should express milk between her nipples. I was worried, but I put her on her back, just like she said.

“My father came and saw my mother being checked by paramedics. He was sad and asked the doctors if she was okay.

“I started crying.

“Then when I saw my mother being taken into the ambulance, I became worried and upset.”

Maria Salud’s husband had just left for work, and she had already finished preparing breakfast when on Saturday, October 12, she suddenly began to feel dizzy.

Maria Salud at Middlemore Hospital after her 9-year-old daughter Sydney collapsed at home and was given CPR.
Maria Salud at Middlemore Hospital after her 9-year-old daughter Sydney collapsed at home and was given CPR.

She said she doesn’t remember what happened next.

“When I woke up, my daughter was lying on my chest and applying compresses while she talked to the hotline staff. I want to acknowledge what she did and how brave she is.”

Salud was taken to Middlemore Hospital and released the next day. She was diagnosed with a syncopal episode and accidental syncope. However, according to her discharge notes, the reason remains a mystery.

Herald Hato Hone St John was contacted for comment but they were unable to respond by deadline.

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Police have resources to teach children how to use the 111 number and children are advised to “remain calm, speak slowly and clearly, give your address and telephone number, answer all questions and follow all instructions, remain on the line until the operator says you that you can call.” hang up”.

Raphael Franks is an Oakland-based reporter covering breaking news. He joined Herald as a Te Rito cadet in 2022.

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