COMMUNITY
Quick Action from Nurse Saved Her Friend’s Life
BC Emergency Health Services honoured nurse Lara Kesteloo with a commendation for saving her friend Skye Maynard during a cardiac arrest in Saanich.
BCEHS Recognizes Nurse for Lifesaving Heroism
On Thursday, July 30, 2026, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) recognized nurse Lara Kesteloo for her lifesaving actions during a cardiac arrest incident. Kesteloo was presented with a letter of commendation from the chief ambulance officer and a challenge coin, an honour typically reserved for trained medical professionals and first responders.
Incident During Saanich Lunchtime Run
The incident occurred in September 2024, when Kesteloo and her friend, fellow nurse Skye Maynard, were on a lunchtime run in Saanich. Maynard collapsed after experiencing cardiac arrest. Kesteloo instructed a bystander to call 911 and immediately began performing chest compressions. Paramedics arrived shortly after to use an AED to restart Maynard’s heart, allowing her to recover.
Critical Intervention Saves Life
Advanced care paramedic Noel Morton noted that the quick intervention by Kesteloo was critical, as survival chances for cardiac arrest drop by approximately 10 per cent every minute without treatment. Both Kesteloo and Maynard continue to work together as nurses in a long-term care setting.