How The Gazette united teenage hero Luca with the the woman he aided on the 11c bus
“We need more Lucas in this world,” says daughter woman young hero saved
A teenage hero has tracked down the woman he saved with speedy medical intervention on a bus - thanks to the Gazette.
Our story of how 14-year-old Luca Mayland came to the aid of a woman having an epileptic seizure on the 11c prompted glowing praise on social media for the teenager’s efforts - and a message from Janet’s daughter to say she is well and recovering at home.
Luca was travelling to his home in Hambleton from a shopping trip in Blackpool when he spotted Janet having the seizure and put his first aid training in the Army Cadets to the best use before an ambulance took Janet to Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
The teenager and his mum Lia were keen to know if Janet was okay and turned to The Gazette to help.
Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day
With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe
Within hours of the story being posted on Facebook, Janet’s daughter Rebekah Marie sent a message saying: “You should be so proud. It was my mum who was poorly and we couldn't thank him enough. She's back home and well. The lesson being we need more Lucas in this world.”
The story attracted a torrent of praise for Luca, including a message from Jordan Wylie MBE, the Blackpool-born national ambassador the Army Cadets.
Jordan wrote: “Well done young man, you epitomise everything the Army Cadets stand for and you have done us all proud. Thank you for being a great ambassador for Army Cadets UK. It makes me even prouder as a Blackpool lad myself.”
Other comments included one from Hazel Mining, which said: “I was on this bus with Luca. The lady was sat directly in front of me. Luca did an amazing job in assisting this lady. His family should be so proud of him.”
James Henderson said: “Awesome - and a reason why it should be taught in schools. Really well done.”
All the latest news direct to your inbox
There is now hope of a possible meeting between Luca and Janet, but Luca said it was just good to know she is all right after her ordeal.
“All we had was her first name and I just wanted to know she was okay,” said Luca. “I couldn’t stop worrying about her.”
Mum Lia added: “It is just so good to hear she is okay. We are so grateful to The Gazette for highlighting the story.”