Off-duty policeman saves holidaymaker in Tenerife during a cardiac arrest
A recent story in Wales Online highlights the incredible bravery and quick thinking of an off-duty police officer in Tenerife. Trevor Butt, a 53-year-old holidaymaker from Duston, Northampton, was saved by the actions of an off-duty policeman after suffering a cardiac arrest while on holiday with his wife, Maxine, for her 50th birthday.
The incident occurred while Trevor was watching the evening entertainment around the pool from his ground-floor balcony. Without warning, he collapsed and stopped breathing, prompting his wife to call for help. Hotel guest Ryan Mutlow, a 31-year-old Essex Police firearms officer, rushed to the scene and immediately started performing CPR on Trevor for a staggering 45 minutes.
Ryan’s quick actions did not stop there; he also used the hotel’s defibrillator to administer life-saving shocks to Trevor. Thanks to Ryan’s heroic efforts, Trevor survived the ordeal and was able to celebrate a vow renewal ceremony with his wife a year later. The bond between the Butts and the Mutlows has grown stronger, with the two couples now considering each other friends for life.
Reflecting on the incident, Trevor expressed his gratitude towards Ryan, acknowledging that if it weren’t for the off-duty officer’s intervention, he might not have survived. Maxine also shared her perspective, stating that the experience was harrowing but made manageable by Ryan’s presence and expertise in a foreign country where language barriers posed additional challenges.
Further medical intervention was needed for Trevor at the Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, where he suffered another cardiac arrest and required additional defibrillator shocks. It was during this hospital stay that Trevor was diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, an inherited heart condition that causes irregular and potentially dangerous heart rhythms.
Following his diagnosis and treatment in the UK, Trevor underwent surgery to have an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) inserted to monitor and correct any irregular heartbeats. While this meant giving up his job as an HGV driver due to the condition affecting his driving license, Trevor found solace and purpose in his new role as a school caretaker.
Looking towards the future, the Butts are advocating for CPR training and support the British Heart Foundation, recognising the impact of early intervention and life-saving skills. Their gratitude towards Ryan and Emma Mutlow knows no bounds, with the couple referring to them as their “heroes and guardian angels.”
The Butts and Mutlows recently reunited in Tenerife, coincidentally booking holidays at the same time, showcasing the enduring bond forged through a life-changing event. Ryan emphasized the importance of being prepared to act in emergency situations, highlighting the profound impact such interventions can have on individuals and their families in times of crisis.
The heartwarming story of Trevor Butt’s survival serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of CPR training, quick thinking, and the selfless actions of everyday heroes like Ryan Mutlow. As the Butts continue to navigate life post-recovery, their gratitude and newfound perspective on life echo a sentiment of resilience and appreciation for every moment spent with loved ones.