WATERBURY — A routine game of golf took a life-threatening turn at the Blush Hill Country Club on July 3, but quick action by bystanders and first responders saved a 68-year-old woman’s life.
Sue Flynn collapsed and became unresponsive while walking to the first hole.
Her companions dialed 911, and nearby golfers began administering CPR.
Waterbury Ambulance Service and former Vermont State Police (VSP) trooper Brian Lindner arrived swiftly, with Lindner taking the lead in resuscitation efforts.
VSP Trooper Mae Murdock, from the Berlin Barracks, continued the crucial chest compressions upon arrival until a LUCAS machine was set up to automate the process.
Murdock’s relentless efforts were later praised by those present, including a member of the woman’s golfing party who believed the trooper’s actions were lifesaving.
Maggie Burke, executive director of Waterbury Ambulance Service, commended the first responders and singled out Murdock’s CPR technique as “textbook,” essential in keeping Flynn alive.
Flynn was stabilized and transported to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
After receiving extensive care, she has since been discharged and is recovering at home.
Both Sue and her husband, Jim Flynn, expressed their heartfelt gratitude toward the Waterbury Ambulance Service, VSP, and especially Trooper Murdock for their service and life-preserving actions.
Trooper Murdock, who transferred to the Berlin Barracks in September, has been nominated for the VSP’s annual Lifesaving Award by her commander, Lt. Thomas Howard.
Jim Flynn emphasized the importance of the initial lifesaving measures performed by bystanders and encouraged public CPR training, noting his own plans to enroll in a class.
