Paul Archer, who collapsed from a cardiac arrest at Stamford Bridge back in November, was reunited with those who saved his life, as part of a special day organised by Chelsea Foundation.
The lifelong Chelsea supporter was taking ill during Chelsea’s 4-4 draw with Manchester City, before a St John Ambulance youth first aider, Prince Tandukar, was on the scene to begin CPR.
With the support of Prince, stadium paramedic Charlotte Faulkner, stadium doctor Will Glazebrook, and a medical team including Billy Britton from London Ambulance Service, Paul thankfully survived the incident. Doctors have called it ‘a miracle’ given he was clinically dead for 20 minutes.
Three months later, Paul along with sons Nick and Ben and fellow Chelsea fans Bernie DaSouza and Gary Dunsmore, were reunited with those who saved Paul’s life.
The group was invited into Chelsea’s training ground to meet with Prince, Billy, Charlotte and Will as part of Chelsea Foundation’s latest community day.
Paul said: ‘I’ve been going to Stamford Bridge for over 50 years, enjoying many great days, but I have to say being able to be at Chelsea’s training ground with all of the people who saved my life is my proudest day as a Chelsea fan.
‘It’s been fantastic. I will never forget what these people have done for me and I am so glad I have been able to have this day to say thank you to them.’
The group began their day in the press room where they joined a Q&A with Chelsea TV’s Lee Parker and Jack Francis from Chelsea FC’s Academy. Paul was then surprised by Chelsea legend John Terry.
To complete their visit, the group were then able to watch the players train before meeting the squad who signed memorabilia for everyone.
Prince Tandukar said: ‘Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As a medical student, hearing the positive impact made for Mr Archer and getting to know the family so well was truly warming and motivating. The experience meeting players was truly amazing too!’