This video from the recent CARDIAC Symposium 2026 in Melbourne provides a rare and valuable insight into the patient experience of surviving and thriving after prehopsital ECPR.
Hugh Burrill, a recently retired and active man, collapsed from a sudden cardiac arrest at his gym. He survived due to immediate CPR from his wife Meridee and other first responders, the care of Ambulance Victoria paramedics, and the initiation of prehospital ECMO by the Alfred ICU team. He spent a week in ICU with limited memory, experiencing confusion and cognitive difficulties while depending on Meridee to support communication and decision‑making. After leaving ICU, he underwent a lengthy rehabilitation, regaining a high level of function.
In this video, Hugh and Meridee (herself a GP) share their experience of this remarkable and challenging journey.
To read more about Hugh and Meridee’s journey check out the following articles and videos:
Visit Courses & Events to learn more about upoming educational activities delivered by the Alfred Intensive Care Academic Centre. In particular, don’t miss Catalyst – Critical Care Ideas in Action and the Advanced ECMO Symposium in July 2026.
This video was produced by the Armchair Medical TV team – their virtual conference pass is a great way to bring high quality education from conferences to your screen wherever you are.
