TikTok sensation and street food trader Spudman has publicly shared his profound gratitude after a neighbour's alert via social media played a crucial role in saving his 98-year-old grandfather's life. The elderly man had suffered a serious fall at his home in Tamworth, leaving him stranded and helpless on his bathroom floor for an alarming six hours.
A Neighbour's Vigilance Sparks Urgent Action
The incident unfolded on Wednesday, January 21, when a local resident noticed something amiss at the grandfather's property. Observing that the curtains had not been drawn at an unusual time, the neighbour, aware of Spudman's online presence and family connection, decided to send an urgent email to the viral personality, whose real name is Ben Newman.
This simple act of community vigilance set off a rapid chain of events. Spudman, upon receiving the message, immediately attempted to contact his grandfather by phone but received no response. Growing increasingly concerned, he then alerted his cousin Jen, who also serves as his personal assistant, and who had independently seen the same email.
Family Rushes to the Scene
Jen, alongside Spudman's uncle, promptly drove to the grandfather's address. Upon arrival, they made the distressing discovery: the 98-year-old had taken a fall and had been lying incapacitated on the bathroom floor for the entirety of those six long hours. Although the elderly gentleman possessed a personal fall alarm, he had removed the device while taking a shower, rendering it inaccessible and useless in his moment of need.
Spudman took to his Facebook platform to share the harrowing experience, posting a heartfelt video message. He stated, "Social media saved my grandad's life today. This is a bit of a thank you video and awareness. I got an email about lunchtime saying: 'I live near your grandad and it's very unusual. His curtains haven't been opened.'"
A Powerful Reminder on Elderly Welfare
The TikTok star emphasised that the entire rescue was initiated because the neighbour recognised him as 'Spudman' and knew of his familial relationship. In his social media post, he expressed immense relief and thankfulness, while also issuing a vital public reminder about the welfare of older community members.
"A silly little thing like noticing your neighbour's curtains aren't drawn... people, keep a check on your oldies," Spudman urged his followers. "Because a silly thing like that could save someone's life and I'm very grateful."
This incident starkly highlights the critical importance of community awareness and regular check-ins on elderly relatives and neighbours, especially those living alone. It also underscores the unexpected, life-saving potential of social media networks when combined with local vigilance and swift action.
