The Ararat man was just the 500^th person to be administered the thrombolysis on the spot drug after paramedics Christine Findlay and Catherine Brady diagnosed his condition after he suffered intense chest pains at his home.

On Friday Mr Jordan met up with the two women who saved his life and Ambulance Services Minister Jenny Mikakos during her visit to Ballarat.

"My wife rung the ambulance and they were there in about eight minutes which was just fantastic," he said. "They were lovely girls and they did fantastic, professional job.

"I'm very grateful because the other option that was open to me was not very good. Without their care I don't think I would be here in as good a condition as I am now, if I was here at all."

The drug works by dissolving blood clots blocking vessels that carry oxygen to the heart.

It is traditionally used in hospitals, but now that paramedics can also administer the drug, it saves time and more lives. As of this week, 580 people have now been treated.

Ms Brady said she was thrilled to see Mr Jordan in such fine health.

"It doesn't happen very often that we get to follow up our patients, so a lot of the time we don't know how the treatment has gone, so we are thrilled to be able to see John here today," she said.

"It's exciting to be delivering this drug, we had no idea we would be the 500^th case, so obviously it's being used a lot now, it's particularly had a great effect on people living in regional areas."

Ms Mikakos said the work of paramedics should never be underestimated.

"It's wonderful to meet John here today who's a picture of good health and meet these wonderful paramedics who do such a fantastic job," she said. "Every single minute is critical in saving lives."

Have you signed up to The Courier's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.