Paul Swindell

After our first meet-up in February 2015, I realised I was not alone. It was the first time since my cardiac arrest the previous year that I had spoken face-to-face with someone who had experienced what I had. This was also true for my wife, who also happened to be my lifesaver. From that meet-up, the idea of SCA UK was born. Since then, we have achieved a considerable amount, primarily providing information, resources and support to others in a similar situation but also raising the profile of survivorship and the need for better post-discharge care. We are starting to get traction in this, and with the formation of the charity, I genuinely believe we have a bright future ahead and will make a significant difference in the lives of many who join our ranks.

Overlooked Challenges: Navigating Cognitive Recovery After Cardiac Arrest

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man walking on rock formations

Question: How do I cope with the cognitive aftermath of my cardiac arrest when my concerns about brain injury are often dismissed? As a cardiac arrest survivor, you may find yourself grappling with not just the physical ramifications of your ordeal but also the often overlooked cognitive challenges that accompany it. It’s not uncommon for … Read more

Exploring the Experience of Children Who Have Provided Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the Impact of CPR Training

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Providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during a cardiac emergency can be an unsettling and even traumatic experience. As CPR training becomes more prevalent in schools, it’s crucial that we understand the potential psychological impact on children and teens. I am part of a new research study from King’s College London that aims to explore the experiences … Read more

Understanding and Overcoming Cardiophobia after Cardiac Arrest

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Surviving a sudden cardiac arrest can be terrifying. After such a traumatic experience, ongoing fears about your heart health are entirely understandable. This excessive, persistent worry has a name – cardiophobia. In the dimly lit confines of his apartment, Mark sat hunched over his laptop, his fingers hovering over the keyboard with trepidation. The screen … Read more