Local Heroes Honoured After Life-Saving Response at Topsail Soccer Pitch
Two Conception Bay South residents, Gerry Stead and Alana Langdon, were formally recognized for their quick thinking and life-saving actions during a ceremony held at the Canadian Red Cross provincial headquarters on Major’s Path in St. John’s. Their story was originally reported by SaltWire and can be read here:
👉 Quick actions helped save soccer player
The pair received Rescuer Awards for their role in saving the life of an 11-year-old soccer player during a traumatic incident at the Topsail artificial turf soccer pitch on the evening of September 25, 2014.
A Sudden Emergency
During the Conception Bay South Soccer Association’s fall skills camp, an 11-year-old participant (whose name is not released due to a publication ban) was unexpectedly attacked by a bystander and stabbed.
In the chaos that followed, Stead — a safety specialist with 3M Canada — and Langdon — a community health nurse — immediately stepped forward to help.
Both responders quickly assessed the situation, provided critical first aid, and performed CPR while awaiting emergency medical services. Their quick action helped stabilize the young athlete during the crucial minutes before paramedics arrived.
Recovery Against the Odds
The young player required multiple surgeries over the following 16 months. Thanks to the rapid response of trained bystanders and the medical teams who continued his care, the athlete made a full recovery and has since returned to the soccer field.
This outcome highlights just how powerful early intervention can be in life-threatening emergencies — and why first aid skills matter.
Why First Aid Training Matters
Emergencies can happen without warning. Knowing how to perform CPR or use an AED can dramatically increase the chances of survival during a critical event.
Be prepared to act—your knowledge could save a life.
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