A South Australian famer has flown back to the Sunshine Coast 18 months after suffering a heart attack, to personally thank the health workers involved in saving his life.
Then 48-year-old Ed Morris was swimming on Noosa beach with his wife and friends in February 2023 when he collapsed and went into cardiac arrest.
Wife Brooke Morris said the lifeguards went into immediate action.
“I stood back so I am not really sure what happened, I just know they were working on him and gave him 16 defibs before he got to the hospital,” she said.
When Ed arrived at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, emergency teams including Dr Henry Huang were waiting for him.
“When he arrived, he was pretty unwell, we were all very worried and we had to stabilise him essentially to get him ready for what’s next - which was either through the intensive care or through the coronary care unit,” Dr Huang said.
The clinical teams worked tirelessly, and Ed was thankfully transferred to the intensive care unit.
“I had to say goodbye to Ed a few times, but that was probably my hardest thing, was having ring my kids in South Australia and say you need to fly up and say goodbye to your dad,” Brooke said.
“We literally thought we were taking Ed home in a box, that’s where we were at so the hospital was amazing – they saved his life.”
After spending two weeks in hospital, the Morris family flew home to South Australia.
Ed is back working on his farm, which includes 5000 acres of wheat, barley, lentils and hay.
18 months later the couple has returned to the Sunshine Coast to not only make some better memories, but to thank those involved in his care.
“The main thing is the fact my husband is alive, and the three kids have a dad. The incredible staff, it started from emergency and then it worked up, they never gave up…so I wanted to say thank you,” Brooke said.
“He’s doing well – very, very lucky – he’s a miracle.”
Dr Henry Huang said you don’t forget a story like Ed’s.
“We seldom get to follow patients up after like this, and this was a very, very big life event for Ed and to see him today in the flesh, back on the farm doing the things he loves and being with his family is just heart-warming,” Dr Huang said.
“Honestly I am grateful to be part of this journey for Ed, I feel like we’re somewhat bonded now in our experiences.”