Big boost for Castlewellan defibrillator campaign

Big boost for Castlewellan defibrillator campaign

26 November 2014

THE Donard Fundraising Group’s campaign to provide lifesaving equipment in Castlewellan has received a £2,500 boost.

The Group was presented with the money last weekend by the town’s Fresh Food Centre as it continues its drive to raise enough money to purchase a defibrillator which will be accessible to the community on a 24/7 basis.

Group chairman, Paul Madden, said members are “extremely indebted” to Fresh Foods for its support, describing the £2,500 donation as “incredible.”

He continued: “We are grateful to Fresh Foods for its support in helping make our project a reality, with credit going to the store’s management, staff and fantastic customers.”

Jacqui Mason said the importance of having access to lifesaving equipment cannot be understated, explaining the key role the defibrillator will play.

The Donard Group’s public relations officer said from the moment someone in Castlewellan is connected to the Ambulance Service, staff are on hand to provide support and information how to access the defibrillator.

“The Ambulance Service will simultaneously mobilise an ambulance to the scene, with staff in the control room remaining on the line to help and support first aid intervention,” explained Jacqui.

“While the defibrillator is key, the other vital component is first aid training as this gives ordinary people, rather than medical professionals, the confidence to act when facing an emergency situation.”

Jacqui said the Donard Group’s campaign to secure lifesaving equipment has received an “unprecedented and overwhelming response” from the public, with many people keen to attend training courses on how to use the defibrillator.

The first training course is being held in the Fresh Food Centre in Castlewellan on December 1.. Details of the dates and venues of other training courses will be posted on the group’s Facebook page.

Jacqui said the Donard Group believes it is critical many towns and villages across the district have access to lifesaving equipment and defibrillator training courses.

She added: “We are immensely grateful to Michael Johnston of Fresh Foods in Castlewellan who has put in a lot of work behind the scenes to support us. He epitomises the true spirit of kindness which the Castlewellan people and surrounding area have in abundance.”

The Donard Fundraising Group can be contacted via its Facebook page, telephone 07599 809280 or 07974 392790. 

The email address is donardfg@hotmail.com.