12 March
A staff member from Hamilton Community Probation & Psychological Services has received the Chief Executive’s Special Commendation Award today to acknowledge the role he played in saving a colleague’s life.
Corrections Chief Executive Barry Matthews says Programme Facilitator James (Jim) Maddox displayed initiative, skill and professionalism during the incident in November last year.
“Jim is being presented with this award for his exceptional action in performing first aid on a colleague, who collapsed while they were exercising together at a gym.
“When his colleague collapsed, Jim was quick to act, he realised she was not breathing and immediately started CPR. He continued to provide CPR for around 10 minutes until emergency services arrived, he also demonstrated his duty to care by accompanying her to the hospital.”
Mr Matthews said doctors believed that Jims’ actions definitely saved the life of his colleague, who thankfully has made a full recovery and will soon be returning to work.
“There is no doubt Jim saved a life and for this he should be thanked and recognised. However, Jim demonstrated even further what a caring professional he is by his subsequent conduct.”
Jim wanted to continue with the rehabilitation programme (MIRP) he and his colleague had been going to run the next day, however, when this proved impossible, he ensured all the participants were informed of the situation.
Despite losing three days, Jim worked with his managers to plan new sessions to enable the programme to be completed on time, with nine participants graduating from the course.
“I must congratulate Jim for displaying such an act of distinction. Staff who demonstrate these kinds of qualities deserve to be recognised and these awards are one way we can show our appreciation for their extraordinary work in what can be a very demanding role.”
The Chief Executive’s Special Commendation Awards were developed last year to recognise the times when Corrections staff display exceptional and exemplary behaviour.
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