Gabby's story

In loving memory of Thomas Brakewell, 1990 – 2025

When Gabby discovered her partner Tom in cardiac arrest, she found herself doing the unthinkable – performing CPR on the love of her life, calling 999, and fighting to save him.

“I just went into ‘nurse mode’,” Gabby recalls. “My medical background and training definitely helped me, but I’m not going to lie - I was freaking out. You never think you’ll need to use it on someone you love.

“Since Tom’s death, lots of people told me that they wouldn’t know what to do in that situation. It made me think; it’s crucial for people to learn first aid and basic life support skills.

“Tom was always there for people, supporting them. We wanted to continue his legacy by collecting donations for St John Ambulance in his memory. To make a difference and make sure that something good came out of this heartbreaking situation.

“We need charities like St John to be there for people in their time of need - saving lives and training others. I think Tom would have 100% agreed with our decision."

Family, friends and the local community donated generously in Tom’s memory, raising an incredible £1845 for St John to support the training of future lifesavers. It is a wonderful tribute to Tom, and we are very grateful to everyone who donated.

Afterwards, we were honoured when Gabby invited us to hold a first aid demonstration for the local community, in Tom’s memory.

One of our volunteers, Peter, helped to organise the special event in Burnley, Lancashire. He said:

"This day will stay in our hearts for a long time. Gabby turned immense sadness into a beacon of hope. We created a day where people could come together to learn vital life-saving skills and share stories, laughter and moments of quiet reflection, and honour Tom in the most meaningful way possible."

A special thank you

We are very grateful for all in-memory gifts. No matter the amount, each and every gift plays a vital role in ensuring we can continue to save lives in the future.

As a special thank you to anyone who donates, collects or fundraises £500 or more in memory of their loved one, we would like to send you a small commemorative gift as a gesture of our appreciation – a ceramic flower in the form of St John’s Wort. This beautiful plant has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and gets its name from its association with St. John the Baptist. This handmade flower can be a symbol of lasting remembrance for your loved one.