CLAIBORNE COUNTY HEALTH COUNCIL HELPS HIGH SCHOOL AED PROGRAM: DONATIONS NEEDED

January 11, 2007

The Claiborne County Health Council has announced the donation of $1000 to the Keep the Beat fundraising campaign designed to place an automated external defibrillator (AED) on-site at both Claiborne High School and Cumberland Gap High School gymnasiums.  An AED is a small, portable electronic device that can provide a shock to the heart during sudden cardiac arrest.  In July 2006, Claiborne County Hospital Sports Medicine was selected to participate in the Keep the Beat fundraiser. 

 According to the American Heart Association, sudden cardiac arrest claims the lives of about 1,000 people every day—men, women and children.  In fact, during a typical business day, more than 20 percent of the combined U.S. adult and child population can be found in schools.  “Both high schools are in desperate need of AED units in the gymnasiums, especially during sporting events.  Having an AED could be the difference between life and death.  I hope that every person in our community will consider donating to this program,” says David Heath, Sports Medicine Coordinator for Claiborne County Hospital.

You can help CHS and CGHS reach the goal of $4,400 for 2 AEDs.  To donate, type the following link: https://secure.groundspring.org/dn/index.php?aid=7414.  Be sure to specify the “school identification” codes M6A000 (CHS) and M6A001 (CGHS).  Nearly $1,300 has already been raised from the community and local businesses.  Donations will also be accepted at Claiborne High School home basketball games.  For more information, about the Keep the Beat Fundraiser, visit www.keepthebeat.org or contact David Heath at (865) 585-4225.

L to R: Jo Ann Bailey, Joyce Hopson, David Heath

Submitted by David Heath, Sports Medicine Coordinator, Claiborne County Hospital Rehabilitation Services