Carlos has worked as a bus driver for 18 years and previously volunteered as a special police constable. In December last year, Carlos’ friend and colleague Richard tragically passed away from a cardiac arrest while waiting to start his next shift. This loss inspired Carlos and his fellow drivers to take action, fundraising for a publicly accessible defibrillator in their colleague’s memory.
Thanks to dedicated fundraising, support from their employer, First Bus, and a government grant, they secured the necessary funds. In July, a defibrillator, cabinet, and commemorative plaque were installed at the very spot where their colleague sadly passed away - creating both a lasting tribute and a vital community resource.
It was accessed just 12 hours later in response to a 999 call.
Carlos volunteered to become the defibrillator Guardian - to regularly check the defibrillator and register it on The Circuit. Carlos’ commitment didn’t stop there. He went on to establish a not-for-profit initiative BristolResus4All, dedicated to increasing the number of accessible defibrillators across Bristol and ensuring they are properly maintained. Carlos also regularly checks defibrillators as he passes them and encourages others to report any that are out of service.
A defibrillator cabinet Carlos had checked and fixed just two days before was accessed to help save the life of a local man. The cabinet lock had been jammed due to a flat battery, but Carlos’ timely intervention ensured the defibrillator was ready and accessible when needed. Because the defibrillator was registered on The Circuit, emergency services could direct bystanders to it quickly when 999 was called.
Carlos’ story is a powerful reminder of the vital role defib Guardians play in keeping communities safe. It also clearly demonstrates how communities can come together in times of loss to create lasting change and protect one another.