MOUNT VERNON — For those that do not know, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), is used to “shock” a person’s heart that stopped beating.
This device can be used by layperson, and is seen in many public venues and valued over $2,000.00
The CSS which recently re-located to a building that had no device started working on acquiring an AED. The goal to acquire such a device was in the process since the move.
Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) Chris Farmer, heard of the goal, took it and ran with it.
FPO Farmer’s drive for this goal found Erin Slates of St. John Lutheran Church of (McZena) Lakeville, Ohio. One of the St John’s members had a son that was killed in 2009 while serving for The U.S. Army as paramedic.
The church family wanted to do something to honor Spc. Damon Winkleman, and so they held a bake sale to buy one AED and give it away in the honor of this solider.
The church children bless each AED prior to it being taken to the donor, and the son’s father still attends church there.
Today, 56 denoted AEDs later, the bake sales and life saving gifts have continued. To have the device, this specific device in our community building is overwhelming.
The hard work and commitment of this team helped COJFD reach our MISSION of safeguarding our community and all who call for help, helps reach CSS’s mission as well, and most importantly St John’s spiritual calling.
We all hope that the device is never used. Lisa’s team at CSS and the firefighters helped properly place the AED at the center should it be needed.
Thanks To All,
Chief Mark McCann