audiences were teary-eyed as the show aired a deeply touching reunion.
On Thursday’s broadcast of the popular morning programme, presenters Ranvir Singh and Ed Balls shared the biggest news of the day. Still, viewers were gripped by an unforeseen emotional highlight when a grateful guest named Richard finally came face to face with Salena, the paramedic who saved him during his cardiac arrest.
Richard disclosed he has penned a heartfelt letter annually for 25 years to express his profound thanks to Salena, who restarted his heart in the back of an ambulance two and a half decades ago. During this landmark broadcast, they met in person for the first time.
Reflecting on the poignant connection, Ranvir addressed Richard, saying: “So for 25 years you’ve been telling her about your life and how grateful you are that she was in the back of that ambulance, she restarted your heart.”
Ed then added: “Since that year you’ve not had the chance to meet her and thank her, until now.”
Salena saved his life after his heart stopped during a heart attack. (Image: ITV)
The studio atmosphere was laden with emotion as Salena, clearly touched, embraced Richard warmly. The moment transcended television as she recounted the unforgettable day of the rescue, her memories vivid as ever, reports .
She recounted the harrowing experience, saying: “It was a normal day then we were called out to Richard with chest pains so we treated him and popped him in the back of the ambulance and I didn’t expect anything more to happen but unfortunately it did on the way to hospital. Richard’s heart stopped unfortunately and I resuscitated him and got him to hospital alive.”
Social media users were quick to express their feelings about the poignant tale. One touched viewer posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “[B]looming eck, I’m a wreck here! #GMB.” (sic)
GMB guests Richard and Selena were reunited (Image: ITV)
Another shared: “What an absolutely beautiful story and it is wonderful to remind people that the NHS is full of amazing people. Well done Salena.”
A third chimed in: “We are watching an example of ‘Uncommon kindness’ – and it’s great!” (sic)
An emotional fan also commented: “Brilliant story. 2014 ITV did a similar report about him writing a letter. She is truly pride of Britain. Her family must be so proud of her.”
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV and ITVX.