After my experience, I started sharing my story with friends and on social media. What surprised me was how many people came forward with similar experiences. Jean Thompson, 72, from Adelaide, had saved herself from choking on a piece of steak while dining alone. Robert Clarke, 63, from Perth, had used ChokeHero when a piece of apple became lodged in his throat while working in his garden.
In each case, the outcome would likely have been tragic without this remarkable device. And in each case, the person had one thing in common with me — they were alone when choking struck.
"I've responded to far too many solo choking deaths in my career," says Mark Ellis. "The tragedy is that many of them could have been prevented with the right tool. That's why I believe ChokeHero should be in every home, especially for those who live alone or care for vulnerable individuals."
Since my incident, I've bought additional units for my car, my bedroom, and even sent one to my sister who lives by herself in Tasmania. It's become as essential to me as having smoke detectors or a first aid kit — perhaps even more so, given how quickly a choking emergency can turn fatal.