AEDs Donated to First United Methodist Church and St. Joseph School

As a part of National Emergency Medical Services Week, celebrated May 15 - 21, EmergyCare donated Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to First United Methodist Church and St. Joseph School, both in Warren. 

 AEDs are simple to use devices that greatly improve the chances of survival for victims of a heart attack.  They are designed to allow bystanders with no medical training to activate the AED on a heart attack victim by following simple written and audio directions.  Dr. Christopher Cammarata, EmergyCare's Medical Director, believes they are an important life-saving tool because, "in cardiac cases, every minute counts.  If circulation to the heart is restored even a minute before EmergyCare arrives, it improves the outcomes.  Current research indicates that the use of AEDs before EMS arrival improves survival outcomes by up to 80%.  That's powerful motivation for widespread availability and use of AEDs."

In addition to donating the devices, free training will be provided to congregation members and school faculty on how to use the AEDs.  Todd Steele, Director of Operations, says that, "While the AEDs provide step-by-step directions, people don't realize how easy they are to use and that no medical training is required.  They are sometimes hesitant  to activate this life-saving device.  As a part of our mission, we work with communities to increase the number of AEDs in high-traffice, easily accessible areas and then follow-up with training and awareness.

In regards to the donated devices, Executive Director Bill Hagerty offered these comments, "We appreciate the ongoing support of the Warren community and this is one small way to show our appreciation and have a postiive effect on the heath and well-being of area residents."

Pictured (L to R):  Todd Steele; Dr. Charles MacKenzie, Parishoner, First United Methodist; Dr. Jeff Sterling, Pastor, First United Methodist; Rev. Richard Toohey, Pastor, St. Jospeh; Betsy Williams, Warren General Hospital; and Bill Hagerty.