10/09/2026
👏 A huge congratulations to 14-year-old Joey Barrett from Cambridge, who has received an EEAST CEO Commendation after using his first aid skills to help his mum when she collapsed at home.
When Suzanna Ruggieri blacked out and fell in the garden, Joey drew on the first aid training he had received through the Army Cadets to stay calm, assess the situation and care for her until she recovered.
Moved by her son's actions, Suzanna later wrote to EEAST to praise the care and support Joey provided after the incident, as well as the help he has given her on many other occasions.
After reading her letter, Chief Executive Neill Moloney decided Joey deserved a formal commendation.
Joey was invited to Cambridge Ambulance Station to receive his award and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, where he met Student Paramedic Norman Ekins-Bell, a former Army Cadet who served in the Army before joining EEAST four years ago.
Joey's actions are a powerful reminder of the importance of first aid training and the difference it can make in an emergency. He is also passionate about helping more young people learn lifesaving skills, believing they should have the opportunity to gain the confidence and knowledge to help others when it matters most.
Congratulations, Joey. Your calmness, maturity and quick thinking make you a very worthy recipient of this recognition. 💚