Runner performed life-saving CPR during Rome Marathon

By Callum McGuigan

A local running enthusiast had to utilise his medical skills to help save the life of a fellow competitor in the Rome Marathon recently. Jonny Hadley resides in Trillick but works as a nurse in Fintona.

He is an avid runner and a member of KC Runners in Killyclogher and Knockmany Running Club in Augher.

Last month, Jonny was representing Knockmany in the Rome Marathon.

Whilst battling the 22 degree heat of the Rome sun, Jonny was steadfast in his run, until he came across a collapsed runner along the route.

Jonny told the TyroneHerald, “It was at about the 20-mile mark when I came across a man who had collapsed on the side of the road.

“There were a few people around him who had elevated his legs and because I am a nurse, I went to assess him.” Jonny continued, “I checked his airways, breathing and circulation and realised there was no sign of life, so I had started CPR. The man’s fiancé was also there and just happened to be a nurse, so we took turns administering CPR until the ambulance arrived.

“The ambulance crew delivered a shock with the defibrillator, then took the man to hospital.”

Incredibly, following the highly stressful and strenuous circuits of CPR, Jonny continued and finished the run! “After he was lifted, I just carried on. It was hard getting back into it, but I just felt I had to keep going.”

According to the Jonny, thankfully the man who collapsed was brought back to life and is apparently making a full recovery in hospital.