Key Takeaways
- Kahu Woolley, a 44-year-old woodchopper, suffered a cardiac arrest during a competition in Noorat, Victoria, but was saved by quick-thinking friends who performed CPR and used a defibrillator.
- The incident highlights the importance of having access to defibrillators and knowing how to perform CPR in emergency situations.
- Kahu’s survival is attributed to the swift actions of his friends and the availability of a defibrillator, which brought his pulse back multiple times before he was taken to hospital.
- The experience has led Kahu to look into his genetic history, where he discovered a potential hereditary link to heart issues.
- The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of the risks of heart disease and taking steps to prevent it, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of symptoms.
Introduction to Kahu’s Passion for Woodchopping
Kahu Woolley, a 44-year-old man from Naracoorte, has been passionate about woodchopping for decades. His love for the sport has taken him to various competitions, including the one in Noorat, Victoria, where he recently suffered a life-threatening cardiac arrest. Kahu’s passion for woodchopping is evident in his dedication to the sport, and his experience has not deterred him from pursuing his passion. In fact, he hopes to return to competitions in the new year.
The Cardiac Arrest Incident
During the competition, Kahu was in the middle of a race, cutting a log with an axe, when he started to feel unwell. He described feeling like he was running out of steam, and his vision was becoming blurry. Normally, he could finish cutting a log in 20-30 seconds, but on this occasion, he was struggling. After completing the block, Kahu walked back to his wife, Kirsty, and told her that something was wrong. His chest began to tighten, and he was unable to breathe, leading to a cardiac arrest. Kahu’s wife and friends, who were nearby, quickly sprang into action, calling for help and starting CPR.
Quick Actions Save a Life
The quick actions of Kahu’s friends, who were trained in CPR, and the availability of a defibrillator, played a crucial role in saving his life. Scott Anderson, the president of the Western Victorian Axemen’s Association, was one of the people who helped Kahu. The association had received a grant in 2019 to purchase a defibrillator, which was used to bring Kahu’s pulse back multiple times before he was taken to hospital. The defibrillator was used in conjunction with CPR to keep Kahu alive until the paramedics arrived. Kahu’s friends and the defibrillator worked together to bring his pulse back for 20 seconds at a time, repeating the process about four times over the course of 15 minutes.
A Dive into Family History
The incident has led Kahu to look into his genetic history, as he was adopted into his family at six months old. His mother has since discovered that his genetic father had a history of heart issues at a young age, suggesting a potential hereditary link to Kahu’s cardiac arrest. This new information has given Kahu a greater understanding of his health and the importance of being aware of his family’s medical history. Kahu’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of knowing one’s family medical history and taking steps to prevent heart disease.
The Importance of Defibrillators and CPR
The survival rate from cardiac arrest is low, but having access to defibrillators and knowing how to perform CPR can significantly improve the chances of survival. Heart Foundation South Australia general manager Claire Gardner encourages anyone with symptoms like Kahu’s to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. She also emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, being active, and minimizing alcohol intake, to reduce the risk of heart disease. Kahu’s experience highlights the importance of being prepared for emergency situations and having the necessary equipment and training to respond effectively.
Life After the Incident
Fortunately, Kahu has no long-term heart damage, and he is expected to make a full recovery. He is currently recovering and has been fitted with a defibrillator for his house, which will provide an added layer of protection for him and his family. Kahu’s experience has given him a new perspective on life, and he is grateful for the second chance he has been given. He hopes to return to woodchopping competitions in the new year and is looking forward to spending time with his family and friends. Kahu’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of appreciating life and taking care of one’s health.
