A young boy sprang into action after his mother began to feel ill at their North East home days before Christmas.
Kasey Foster, from Shiremoor, began to feel increasingly poorly as she suffered from a chest infection last December.
After noticing his mother’s lips and tongue turning blue, her five-year-old, James Eggo, immediately called emergency services.
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Heath advisor Andrew Broadbent praised James for his bravery and quick-thinking in such a difficult situation.
He said: “When I answered the call from James, I heard this soft, sweet little voice. But he was so calm.
“He answered all of my questions and understood what he needed to do when I asked if he could go to his next door neighbour for an adult.
“Some young children wouldn’t have the intuition to do that.
“He did a fantastic job.”
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Mr Broadbent was able to guide James through a series of questions to find out what had happened.
He asked the boy if he could get a neighbour so an adult could be with him and his then 10-month-old sister Chloe.
James was presented with a certificate by Andrew for his brave actions after calling North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) on 22 December last year.
This event was attended by Kirsty, his sister Chloe and their dad, Richard.
Speaking of her pride in James, Kirsty said: “James did so well. He brought me a glass of water and said ‘it’s going to be ok mam. They won’t be long’.”
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Richard, who was at work at the time, said: “James got an extra present from Santa for what he did that day.”
Kirsty was able to be treated at home by an ambulance crew and recovered in time for Christmas.
Mr Broadbent said: “It’s important to teach your children what 999 is for, for them to listen carefully to the health advisor, and answer the questions they’re asked as best they can.”
