A 16-year-old has become the youngest St John Ambulance Cadet to receive the prestigious Order of Mercy Medal following two dramatic rescues of his mother within twelve months.
Dylan Murphy earned this rare distinction after performing CPR during one emergency and recognising symptoms of severe anaphylactic shock in another.
On both occasions, the teenager saved Trudi Murphy's life.
ST JOHN'S AMBULANCES
|Dylan Murphy earned this rare distinction after performing CPR during one emergency and recognising symptoms of severe anaphylactic shock in another
The teenager's heroism caught royal attention when he attended a Young Achievers' reception with Princess Anne last year, where Her Royal Highness personally commended his actions.
His achievement marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first St John Ambulance Cadet in England and just the thirteenth cadet across all services to receive this honour, which recognises exceptional bravery and service.
The remarkable double rescue occurred within a single year, with the young hero first administering CPR before later identifying and responding to anaphylactic shock symptoms.
Lord Lingfield presented the prestigious award during a ceremony at Mansion House in London, acknowledging the teenager's exceptional quick thinking and medical intervention skills.
Despite living with mastocytosis, a rare medical condition, Dylan continues his education at home whilst actively participating as a St John Ambulance Cadet.
ST JOHN'S AMBULANCES
|The teenager's heroism caught royal attention when he attended a Young Achievers' receptio
The League of Mercy Foundation, which administers the Order of Mercy Medal, reserves this recognition for those demonstrating extraordinary personal service to others.
The teenager's life-saving interventions showcase the vital importance of first aid training, particularly given his young age and personal health challenges.
Reflecting on the extraordinary events, Trudi expressed her gratitude.
She said: "After twice saving my life in only a short period of time, Dylan truly deserves this medal for his quick thinking and his first aid skills. I'm one proud mum. My son is my hero."
GETTY
|Princess Anne personally commended his actions
The young lifesaver remained humble about his achievements.
He said: "Receiving the Order of Mercy Medal was an unforgettable experience and I feel very grateful. I never imagined something like this would happen. I just did what I was trained to do—and what any son would do. I'm proud to be part of St John Ambulance and grateful for everything I've learned."
Looking ahead, Dylan has set his sights on a medical career, with plans to pursue paramedic training.