Fundraising begins in Longford for update of Killashee Clondra Defibrillator

After 14 years of providing an essential service for the treatment of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias Killashee/Clondra Defibrillator Group are raising funds to update the life saving device.
The community defibrillator is a crucial piece of equipment. If the heart rhythm stops due to cardiac arrest, also known as sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a defibrillator may help it start beating again. Community volunteers are trained in the use of the device.

At present there is one defibrillator available in the parish for use and this is situated at the St Brigid's Clubhouse in Killashee.
A new committee has been formed and it has been established that all defibrillators are due an upgrade or to be replaced. The lifespan of a defibrillator is 10 years so to ensure its reliability and safe use, therefore we need to replace a number of the defibrillators.

“Unfortunately, this replacement comes at a cost, and we need to raise significant funds in order to achieve this. Our Community Parish Defibrillator group was established in 2009 and is run by active volunteers in the community. This is a non-profit organisation,” Joe Tyrrell, one of two voluntary Chairs of the group, told the Leader.
The committee have organised a fundraising raffle which will take place in The Richmond Inn, Clondra on Tuesday, September 15 next.

“In the coming weeks we will call to homes in the parishes selling tickets. The cost of the tickets is €20 or 3 for €50 with a winning prize of €1,000. We would be grateful for any support we get,” Niamh McPartland, the other joint Chair of the Group said.