Choking British Tourist Saved By Greek Restaurant Manager

Jul 22, 2019

The manager of Amphora Tavern in Chania, Crete, has proven to be a hero after saving a British tourist's life when he started choking on a chicken kebab. 

According to the Daily Mail, the video was captured at the tavern and showed Vasilis Patelakis, the manager, rushing to the rescue when he witnesses a tourist choke on his food.

The outlet reported that Patelakis decided to post the video on social media, so as to ‘educate the public’ about how important it is to be familiar with the Heimlich Maneuver. 

"I've served thousands of customers," Patelakis told the publication. "But this was the first time I had to deal with such an incident. It was intense."

The identity of the tourist is not yet known, but he can be seen choking on his food when seated at one of the restaurant’s tables. The video shows him springing out of his chair and pacing around his table as he struggles to catch a breath. 

Other patrons are seen looking anxiously at the ordeal; however, nobody else rushed to help.  Patelakis, who is a former special forces officer, noticed the tourist was choking and rushed to his aid to perform the Heimlich Maneuver. 

"He had choked on a piece of chicken kebab," he explained.

The restaurant manager then goes on to thrust the customer thrice and eventually manages to oust the kebab.  

"Clearly a memorable experience," said Pantelakis. "The couple had come and dined here before, during their holiday stay. This, however, was supposed to be their last meal before returning back home. Fortunately, it was not his final."

He explained the tourist was "immensely grateful and promised to return to Chania in the future." When asked if he was left a tip, however, he did not say. 

"All I am concerned is that he is safe and alive."

What do you think of Patelaki’s heroic act? Are you familiar with the Heimlich Maneuver? Let us know in the comments - and make sure you pass this along to your friends and family!