Wirral doctor receives award for saving life while off duty

Wirral University Teaching Hospital junior doctor Joe Clarkson was having his hair cut in Liverpool when he noticed a commotion outside.

The 28-year-old sprang from his barber chair to the aid of Grant Williams, a military veteran who had collapsed while out running.

Alongside Dr Mel Hamilton, they performed CPR until the ambulance arrived, saving Grant’s life.

Deeply grateful, Grant later put out an appeal on BBC Breakfast to find the doctors who had saved him, leading to an emotional reunion.

Joe said: “When you’re in the moment, you really don’t think. You just help.

“It’s like muscle memory.”

In addition to their marathon training and fundraising, the duo has been actively working together to educate others about the importance of heart health.

Grant, who owns a fitness company, said: “We’ve been doing some CPR and defibrillator training together as people don’t really know how to use them.”

Joe added: “It’s like we’ve known each other forever.”

Joe and Grant at the gym (Image: WUTH)

In a touching gesture, Grant even has Joe’s initials tattooed on his arm.

“I will always be indebted to him,” said Grant. “He’s a diamond.”

To mark his efforts, Joe has been awarded Wirral University Teaching Hospital’s very first CEO Star Award.

The prestigious accolade was presented by the Trust’s Chief Executive Janelle Holmes and Medical Director Dr Nikki Stevenson, in recognition of joe’s extraordinary efforts in saving a life while off duty.

Joe said: “I was just getting on with my day-to-day business when I received it.

“It’s a huge honour that’s just added to an already extraordinary story.”

Janelle Holmes, Chief Executive at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said: “It was fantastic to present the first ever CEO Star Award to Joe.

“His actions were truly commendable and show just how compassionate and caring staff are at the Trust.

“It’s great to see that Joe and Grant have now continued their journey in educating others around heart health.”