Mercy cadet Chloe is lifesaver

Budding young paramedic Chloe Hawthorne has become the latest Express & Star Local Hero for saving the life of her older sister.

Chloe, aged 11, acted quickly when 13-year-old Chennelle Hawthorne suffered a diabetic attack and was in danger of slipping into a coma. Ambulance crews said Chloe's actions had saved the life of her sister and were impressed at her ability to stay calm and take the correct steps.

Chloe, along with her sister, is a St John Ambulance cadet and has been chosen to front the organisation's campaign to encourage more people to learn life-saving skills.

The youngster, from Hurcott Road, Kidderminster, has now received an Express & Star's Local Heroes Award sponsored by Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Birmingham Midshires.

Chloe, a pupil at King Charles I School, Kidderminster, has been a St John Ambulance cadet for 16 months, attending regular meetings at the Birmingham Road base.

On March 8 Chennelle, a diabetic, complained of feeling ill and went to her room.

Chloe went with her, and noticed her sister was acting strangely. Suspecting Channelle's blood sugar level had dropped, Chloe immediately carried out a blood test and reading came back as low and zero.

Chloe alerted her mother, Raydene, and an ambulance was called. As they waited, the youngster prepared her sister's medication, to assist the paramedics.

Chloe stayed at her side and reassured her. When the ambulance crew arrived she assisted them until her sister recovered.

Chennelle later went to Kidderminster Hospital for a check and the attack was blamed on a stomach bug. Ambulance crews said Chloe had saved her sister's life.

Mrs Hawthorne, aged 53, said they were very proud of Chloe.

"If Chloe hadn't been there I dread to think what might have happened. I am amazed by the skills shown by Chloe and what both girls have learned through St John Ambulance Cadets."