A train conductor helped a baby with a leaking shunt. He provided aid and calmed the parents during the emergency.
James was checking tickets on the train when he noticed a baby screaming and the parents worried. A tube draining fluid from the baby’s brain was leaking, prompting James to quickly act to provide aid. He found a first aid kit and brought a foil blanket for the baby.
This gave the family time to reach a hospital, all occurring on a train from Knottingley to Hebden Bridge. Jane Griffiths and Joe Pouton were traveling with their six-month-old baby, Austin. They realized something was wrong with him.
Austin has hydrocephalus, needing a shunt fitted two weeks prior to drain fluid from his brain. The parents changed Austin’s diaper and noticed his back felt wet.Then, they saw fluid pouring from baby’s head.
Everyone panicked, and Austin started crying. James stopped to help them instead of just scanning their tickets. He calmed the parents down and gave them the help needed.
They called Leeds Children’s Hospital quickly, and doctors there told them to rush Austin in. The parents got off the train at Leeds station, after which James felt stressed and cried in the train’s back cab.
He helps many people daily, yet rarely hears from them again. Austin underwent medical procedures and is now home, recovering well after what happened. The mother stated James saved Austin’s life and James said he felt glad Austin is okay now.
Jane thanked James and nominated him for an award, deeply appreciating his assistance that day. She wanted to show her gratitude towards James, feeling that bringing chocolates to him felt insufficient. James felt pleased about the nomination.
He maintains he is not a hero, just a regular guy, and stressed his safety role. Northern’s regional director feels very proud of James who helped a family during a tough time. Conductors support passengers besides checking tickets, keeping millions safe each year.