A 9-year-old girl has received accolades for her bravery after she saved her grandmother's life by recalling what she had been taught in school. When her grandmother suffered a stroke, Safa Hussain reacted appropriately, promptly, and quietly. Now, the Lord Mayor of Bradford has acknowledged Safa and Helen Matthews, a higher-level teaching assistant who instructs first aid as an after-school activity at the school. Safa was sick and had to stay with her grandmother while her mother was at work.

Safa's grandmother had a stroke at this period. Safa was able to identify the signs of a stroke and understand the significance of the golden hour because of what she had learned from Helen in school. She called the emergency services and explained the situation.To give her grandmother the best chance of surviving, Safa applied what she had learned to follow directions from the emergency services and communicate clearly. Her grandma is still alive because she remained composed and reacted appropriately.Safa acted with 'courage and bravery.'

Brogan Thornton, a Year 4 teacher at Low Ash Primary School, said, “Safa acted with courage and bravery in what was a very serious situation; her fast thinking and remembering what she had learnt at school meant she was able to save her grandma's life." This was possible as what she had been taught was done so at a high standard and thoroughly.

"If it wasn't for Helen's dedication to her job and enthusiasm towards teaching first aid in school, this outcome may not have been possible.”

Great to 'recognize the bravery of Safa' and 'excellent' teaching

Safa and Helen received certificates of appreciation from the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Bev Mullaney.

The Lord Mayor praised Safa's actions, as well as the teaching that enabled her to jump into action. She said, “It is great to recognize the bravery of Safa and the excellent teaching given to her, allowing her to take action to help save her grandma.

"A huge well done to Safa for remaining calm and helping to save her grandma’s life."

Stroke symptoms

Since 2009 the NHS has advised the public to remember the acronym FAST—face, arms, speech, and time—when spotting and reacting to signs of a stroke.

A sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, sudden loss of vision or blurred vision, memory loss or dizziness, and unsteadiness are all other symptoms that could indicate someone is having a stroke.