Ten-year-old Isaiah Banton, from Sydenham, called 999 when his mother Sabrina collapsed and was unable to speak.
He stayed calm during the emergency and guided London Ambulance Service paramedics into their home and to her side in the bedroom.
Isaiah was later presented with a certificate at the London Ambulance Service’s Waterloo headquarters in recognition of his actions.
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Sabrina, 36, said: “I was on the phone to my mum and I started slurring my words. My mum asked if I was having a stroke.
“Isaiah came into the bedroom – I couldn’t form words for him and fell to the floor.
“He started crying and called 999. I know he was overwhelmed and scared but he handled the situation with such grace.”
The paramedics treated Sabrina at the scene and took her to King’s College Hospital for further care.
Sabrina said: “I’m very proud that Isaiah has been recognised for his bravery and that he has used what I’ve taught him about calling 999 in an emergency.
“Parents should always teach their children how to call the ambulance service because an emergency could happen at any moment.”
Isaiah was excited to reunite with the paramedics who helped his mother.
Sabrina said: “He felt very chuffed being rewarded with a certificate and was very excited to see Josh and Amelia again – they chatted a lot about what he has been up to. The paramedics definitely inspired him and he’s eager to learn more about the ambulance service.”
Josh Smith, one of the responding paramedics from Bromley Ambulance Station, said: “Sabrina is still here smiling because of what Isaiah did. He remained very calm and told us exactly what happened to his mum.
“Parents should teach their children how to call 999, ensure they know their address, and listen to instructions given by the call handlers. They will guide your children on what they need to do in an emergency.”
Stroke symptoms include face weakness, arm weakness, or speech problems. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, use the FAST test: Face, Arms, Speech, Time to call 999.
