"Had it not been for MePACS, I wouldn't be here today."
When every breath counts
For Jo, living alone with fragile asthma — an unpredictable and potentially life-threatening condition means knowing that a medical emergency can strike without warning. Once manageable, Jo's condition became increasingly unpredictable, turning everyday life into a constant balancing act between independence and safety.
Jo's asthma attacks often strike unexpectedly and in recent times have become more frequent and more dangerous. "I was having numerous asthma attacks in the early hours of the morning, usually around 1 or 2am, and in the past I've been able to drive myself to hospital. But these symptoms were getting more severe, to the point that I was unconscious by the time the ambulance arrived," shared Jo.
As her condition worsened, Jo knew she needed a way to get help immediately, especially when she was unable to speak or move.
Help in critical moments
During one particularly severe asthma attack, Jo discovered just how critical it can be to receive fast emergency response by a professional team.
"During my last asthma attack, I could barely talk. The MePACS operator could tell I was in a bad way, and they organised an ambulance straightaway, as well as tell the paramedics where the key lock was, as I couldn't get to the door. I remember before I passed out, I could hear their calm voice reassuring me that help was on the way," says Jo.
Jo's asthma attack turned out to be so severe that she passed out from lack of oxygen. She had to be resuscitated and then intubated. She remained in intensive care for three weeks. Had it not been for the rapid response from MePACS, Jo may not have been around to tell the story.
A lifeline for independent living
With MePACS as her safety lifeline, Jo continues to live independently with greater confidence and peace of mind. While living alone in regional Victoria presents its own challenges, she loves the serenity of her home and the close-knit community she’s part of. A Spanish teacher, counsellor and devoted grandmother, Jo truly enjoys giving back to the community.
"It's really hard to make sure you have emergency help when you live alone in a regional area. When I struggled to breathe, I knew there was no way that I could physically make a phone call myself. But for MePACS to organise everything and stay with me the whole time was just brilliant."
Whether visiting friends, volunteering, or seeing her local doctor, she’s always quick to share how MePACS has changed her life. "MePACS has given me great peace of mind. In the last couple of years especially, I've had so many severe attacks and had it not been for MePACS, I wouldn't be here today," said Jo.
"I think everyone in my situation, living alone with a serious medical condition, should have a MePACS personal alarm. I have been in hospital so many times and my daughter said one day 'thank goodness you've got that alarm mum, we all know MePACS has saved your life."
Person-focused care
For Jo, knowing she doesn’t have to face a medical emergency alone brings immense comfort. "To know that someone is there for me when I am very unwell and that I am not going through this asthma attack alone really makes all the difference. I don't have to hope that someone will pick up, because MePACS are guaranteed to respond. And I know they will answer quickly as well. I never have to wait long at all and that's so important when I am dealing with a very serious medical emergency," concludes Jo.
MePACS securely stores Jo’s medical information on file, ensuring emergency responders have the details they need, especially when she is unable to communicate. "The last couple of times, all I've been able to say was the word ambulance and because MePACS has my medical history on file, they knew exactly what was happening even when I couldn't tell them," she says.
Beyond emergency response, Jo values the kindness and personal care she receives every day. "The MePACS team are just delightful. They never mind if it is accidental or I forget to do my 'daily call'. They are happy to give me a friendly reminder about my monthly pendant test and always wish me a lovely day," she says with a smile.
"They are so genuine and really go above and beyond no matter the reason you have pressed the personal alarm. The personalised service that you get from MePACS is wonderful."
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