An off-duty hospital worker from Birmingham has been praised for saving a grandmother's life after she collapsed in the street while walking her dog. Naima Shaharyar, a wellbeing hub co-ordinator at Heartlands Hospital, was driving along Coleshill Road in Hodge Hill when she saw Elayne Hawkins fall. She immediately pulled over and realised Elayne was in cardiac arrest.
Quick actions on Coleshill Road
Naima, who was on her way to a late shift at Heartlands, calmly gave CPR until paramedics arrived. Elayne's family was later told the CPR had been vital in saving her life. Elayne is now recovering and looking forward to attending her granddaughter's wedding before returning to Canada, where she lives.
Her son, Richard, said: “Unfortunately, I wasn’t present when this happened, but those who witnessed the incident said Naima was outstanding throughout. She encouraged and guided another bystander who was understandably nervous, making sure CPR continued correctly before stepping straight back in herself.”
Family's gratitude and recovery
Richard added: “We have since been told the CPR my mother received was vital in saving her life. The fact my mother is here today and recovering means everything to us. As a family, we cannot put into words how grateful we are to Naima. What she did wasn’t simply a kind gesture - she stepped in at a critical moment when someone needed urgent help. Because of that, my mother has been given the opportunity to continue being part of our lives. Naima will always hold a special place in our family’s hearts.”
Naima said: “I was in the right place at the right time and knew I had to do whatever I could to help. It was a frightening situation, but if it had been a member of my family, I would have wanted someone to do the same. I’m so pleased to hear Elayne is doing so well. I’m touched by the family’s kind words and wish Elayne all the very best as she continues her recovery.”
Hospital leadership response
Dr Rifat Rashid, hospital executive director at Heartlands, said: “I am incredibly proud of Naima and of the calm, compassionate way in which she responded in such a critical situation. Her actions demonstrate the enormous difference that early CPR can make when someone suffers a cardiac arrest. I am pleased to hear Elayne is recovering well and spending valuable time with her family.”
