Daijiworld Media Network – Belagavi
Belagavi, Dec 14: Former MLA from Khanapur and AICC Goa in-charge Dr Anjali Nimbalkar saved the life of an American woman during an Indigo flight from Goa to New Delhi on Saturday, December 13.
Just minutes after take-off, the woman, identified as Jenny from California, fell seriously ill, experiencing severe tremors and collapse. Her blood pressure dropped drastically, and her pulse was almost undetectable. Jenny lost consciousness and began convulsing. Onboard, Dr Anjali, who was travelling on the same flight, rushed to assist. She immediately administered Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a life-saving treatment for heart complications.
Jenny stabilised slightly and slumped back into her seat, but the same symptoms recurred after half an hour. Dr Anjali stayed by her side, continuously administering emergency care, ultimately saving her life.
As the plane prepared to land, Dr Anjali coordinated with the flight crew to ensure an ambulance was waiting on the runway. Jenny was immediately taken to hospital upon arrival.
Videos of the incident circulated widely on social media, with many highlighting Dr Anjali’s heroism at 30,000 feet, prompting passengers and airline staff to praise her for her courage and quick thinking.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Anjali said, “Jenny was at the brink of death. For a moment, I was scared too. But I did whatever was needed to save her. Once she regained some stability, Jenny said, ‘You came to me as a guardian angel.’”
She added, “Such emergencies can arise due to dehydration, dietary issues, or even medication reactions. Without immediate treatment, the heart can stop within seconds. Even with medical facilities onboard, saving a life is extremely difficult. There should be at least basic medical equipment on flights. Even one IV set can be very helpful.”
Dr Anjali also mentioned that Jenny's aunt is a female specialist doctor practicing in New Delhi, coincidentally also named Anjali. “After we got Jenny into the ambulance and she called her aunt in Delhi, I knew my job was done,” she said.