Anjali had tried to take her own life but she was able to be saved by the quick help of the ambulance services and hospital
A London graduate has thanked an NHS paramedic for helping look after her after she had tried to take her own life. 24-year-old Anjali was found at home by her parents after she had hurt herself during a mental health crisis in 2024.
Her parents, Geeta and Anil, called the ambulance service, and they arrived immediately and helped to stabilise Anjali. She was taken to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, where she received surgery and further treatment that helped save her life.
Alex Pugsley was one of the paramedics who helped Anjali that day. Anjali is now a mental health advocate for the North East London NHS Foundation Trust. She visited Whipps Cross Ambulance Station to thank Alex and the ambulance crew for helping save her life.
Anjali said: “Words will never truly express the gratitude I feel for the ambulance crew who saved my life. At the time, I did not want to be saved. I never imagined my life would take the turn it did. It was the most painful and isolating period of my life.
“Yet thanks to them I have been granted a second chance at life, where I am happier and healthier than before. This has given me the opportunity to help others, which has enriched my life with a renewed sense of purpose.
“However, this would not have been possible without the swift intervention of the ambulance crews and all the other healthcare professionals that enabled my recovery.”
Alex Pugsley described it as ‘lovely’ to meet Anjali again and see her doing well. He said: “I can’t even imagine how hard it must have been for her and the family.”
Her parents were immensely thankful for the help Anjali received and said nothing can ‘prepare you for the fear’ of seeing your child in a life and death situation.
Geeta said: “It is unimaginable seeing your child like that. At work, I am the school’s first aider, but seeing your child in a life-and-death situation is something else entirely. Nothing prepares you for the fear, helplessness and uncertainty in such a desperate situation. It is every parent’s worst nightmare.
“They didn’t just save Anjali – they saved the whole family. Mental health affects us all and please reach out if you need help. Your voice matters and you are needed in this world.”
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
