Five cycles of CPR: The rescue of a teenager that earned Muhammad Hashir the Life Saving Medal

Malappuram: N.K. Muhammad Hashir (31) has been awarded the 2024 Life Saving Medal for his brave role in rescuing a 19-year-old who had drowned in a pond at Chelembra.

Hashir was recognised for his quick and decisive action that saved the young man’s life.

What happened on January 24, 2023 ?

On 24 January 2023, Harinand, a nineteen-year-old, and a friend were bathing in a pond in Chelembra when the friend began to drown. Hashir, a swimming coach, was nearby having tea at a shop when he heard about the incident and rushed to the scene.

He found the youth standing on the bank of the pond, visibly shaken and holding onto a rock. Hashir learned that Harinand had disappeared under water in a part of the pond that was two people deep.

After calling for an ambulance, Hashir immediately jumped into the pond and pulled Harinand to safety. Upon bringing him ashore, he found that the young man had no pulse and was not breathing. Hashir promptly administered CPR beside the pond. After five cycles of resuscitation, Harinand began to breathe again and was taken to hospital.

The treating doctors later testified that Harinand was revived due to the timely, accurate and scientific first aid administered by Hashir.

The Life Saving Medal was presented to Hashir by Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman at a ceremony held at the Collectorate. Collector V.R. Vinod, Deputy Collector Swathi Chandramohan and Deputy Collector Jayashree (LA) were also present. Harinand’s father, advocate Prashanth, had nominated Hashir for the award, but was not present to witness the presentation.

Hashir, who has been a swimming coach for the past five years, is also known for his work as a social worker.