Waheed Akhtar Back Exercising at Fulwood Leisure Centre After Cardiac Arrest

A leisure centre member whose life was saved by quick-thinking staff at Fulwood Leisure Centre has made a remarkable return to fitness, more than a year after suffering a cardiac arrest while training in the gym.

On 10th June 2025, Waheed Akhtar was exercising in the gym at Fulwood Leisure Centre when he suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest. Staff immediately recognised that Waheed was displaying agonal gasps, a key sign of cardiac arrest, and acted without hesitation.

Remaining calm under immense pressure, members of the leisure centre team quickly assessed the situation, began lifesaving CPR and deployed the centre's defibrillator. Their swift and professional response proved critical in keeping Waheed alive until emergency services arrived.

North West Ambulance Service and the North West Air Ambulance attended the incident before Waheed was transferred to Blackpool Victoria Hospital for specialist treatment.

After a lengthy recovery, Waheed made the significant decision to return to Fulwood Leisure Centre earlier this year. Today, he is once again a regular gym user and continues to rebuild his strength and fitness through regular exercise.

Reflecting on the events of that day, Waheed said:

"It is difficult to put into words just how grateful I am for the help I received that day. What happened was completely unexpected and undoubtedly one of the most frightening moments of my life.

"The actions of the staff who responded, remained calm and provided help when I needed it most are something that I, and my family, will never forget. My gratitude goes beyond what happened on that day."

Waheed also spoke about the support he has received since returning to the leisure centre as part of his recovery.

"Returning to the leisure centre as part of my recovery was understandably a significant step for me. The support, patience, encouragement and genuine care I have received from the team since returning has made a huge difference.

"You have helped me regain not only my physical fitness, but also my confidence in being back in the environment where such a life-changing event took place.

"What could easily have become a place associated with fear has instead remained somewhere I feel welcomed, supported and safe. That is a testament to the people who work there.

"Every conversation, every check-in and every bit of encouragement has meant more to me than you may realise.

"Having people around me who understood what I had been through, while still helping me move forward and regain a sense of normality, has played an important part in my recovery.

"More than a year on, I am incredibly grateful to be able to continue coming through those doors, exercising and getting stronger. Experiences like this give you a very different perspective on life, and I will never forget the people who were there when I needed help most."

Waheed's story highlights the vital importance of CPR training, prompt emergency response and access to life-saving defibrillators in community facilities. The actions of the Fulwood Leisure Centre team, together with the care provided by ambulance crews, air ambulance personnel and hospital staff, gave Waheed the opportunity to make a full recovery and return to the activities he enjoys.

Today, Waheed's return to regular exercise stands as a powerful reminder of the difference that trained staff, emergency preparedness and ongoing community support can make when every second counts.