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Paramedics' Error Leaves Woman Disabled
14 May
Summary
- Paramedics delayed life-saving shock by eight critical minutes.
- Woman sustained permanent disabilities after cardiac arrest.
- She received an undisclosed settlement after legal action.
Meg Fozzard, a 26-year-old TV producer, suffered permanent disabilities after a cardiac arrest in April 2019. Ambulance crews delayed a potentially life-saving defibrillator shock by eight critical minutes due to incorrect equipment use and pressing the wrong button. This delay deprived her brain of oxygen, resulting in lasting impairments including speech difficulties, fatigue, and reliance on a wheelchair.
Fozzard, now 33, has since won an undisclosed settlement from the London Ambulance Service NHS Trust, which acknowledged breaches in its duty of care. Despite initial severe challenges, including being unable to work for 14 months, she has accessed rehabilitation and therapy.
She is now able to engage in activities like aerial sports and swimming again, defying earlier expectations. While acknowledging the emotional impact of the event, Fozzard is focused on her recovery and part-time freelance work specializing in disability rights.
The London Ambulance Service has apologized for the substandard care and stated that a thorough review was conducted, leading to implemented changes in their procedures to improve patient safety.
