Sue, 53, who never envisioned herself working in care until a chance opportunity led her to Bluebird Care, has supported over 200 customers across Swale during her career, including a lady she supported for over 8 and half years.

Sue’s journey to care was an unexpected one. A former painter, decorator, and tiler, she took a chance on a new career after encouragement from her partner, who had previously worked for Bluebird Care. Now, she can’t imagine doing anything else. For Sue, the joy of connecting with people in her community makes every day rewarding.  

On the day in question, she was caring for a customer she had looked after for over two years - a woman living with vascular dementia, who experiences physical jerks that can occur unexpectedly. Sue has an incredibly meaningful relationship with the customer, who shares smiles, laughs, and even hugs with Sue despite her condition limiting her movement and interactions. 

During a meal, the customer began choking when food became lodged in her airway. As she slipped into shock and stopped breathing, Sue immediately sprang into action. 

With the help of the customer’s husband, Sue gently lowered her to the floor and began performing the Heimlich manoeuvre. When the choking didn’t resolve, Sue administered CPR for several minutes - her first time performing it in a real-life scenario - until the customer finally regained her breath.  

Reflecting on the incident, Sue Russell, Care Professional at Bluebird Care Swale, said:

 “I’ve had years of training and experience, but nothing prepares you for a moment like that. I just knew I had to stay calm and act quickly. It was terrifying, but I’m so relieved she’s okay. I love my job and care deeply for the people I support, so it means the world that I was able to help her.”

Though the experience was harrowing, Sue’s bond with the customer made her determination even stronger. The overwhelming support from her Bluebird Care Swale team helped her process the event, and the customer’s husband expressed immense gratitude for her actions, keeping Sue updated while his wife recovered in the hospital. 

 Mr Cooper, Husband of Sue’s customer, added:   

“On behalf of my wife and me, I would like to thank Bluebird Carer Sue Russell for her quick thinking and the prompt response she provided to my wife during a real emergency situation, which resulted in a 999 call-out for the hospital. Many thanks Sue!”  

Jordan Byrne, Director at Bluebird Care Swale, praised Sue’s bravery: 

“Sue is an incredible Care Professional, and her actions during this incident were nothing short of heroic. Her professionalism, quick thinking, and genuine compassion saved a life that day. We are so proud to have Sue on our team - she truly embodies the values of Bluebird Care and is an inspiration to us all.”  

The customer is now back home and safe, with no permanent health issues thanks to Sue’s courageous and professional response.  Bluebird Care Swale is proud to celebrate Sue’s dedication, compassion, and heroism - a true reflection of the life-saving impact of professional home care.