Every week, 12 people under the age of 35 die from sudden cardiac arrest. Everyday, there are 200 cardiac arrest incidents in the UK - those that do not occur in a hospital are 90-95% likely to result in death because of lack of immediate treatment.
Quick defibrillation is required to increase the chance of survival. Considering that most genetic heart conditions that cause sudden death are undiagnosed, we strongly believe it is essential that all schools are fitted with a defibrillator. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone. A person who has had a cardiac arrest loses 10% of their chance of survival with every minute that passes without a defibrillator.
Lisa Tavendale is now raising money to install defibrillators in memory of her brother Craig Valentine, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly after having a cardiac arrest at home in April. This was due to a heart condition called Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a familial heart condition which herself, mother and potentially Lisa's son (aged 4) suffer from also.
Lisa said: "Craig was an amazing person with the kindest heart and I know he would be so proud of the work we are doing to help ensure that lives are saved.
The effect that this situation has had on myself and my family is heartbreaking and we are determined to ensure that this tragedy is one of the last of its kind, so in memory of Craig we aim to raise enough money to ensure that there are defibrillators in all Angus schools."
The latest defibrilaltor that Lisa sucessfully fundraised for has been installed at Borrowfield Primary School - pictured below.
We are always honoured to support and help supply lifesaving devices to such inspiring causes like Lisa's.
London Hearts want to ensure that nobody is further than 100M from a fully working and public accessible defibrillator across the whole of the UK. Together, we can save lives and beat the heartbreak.
You can donate to Lisa's Just Giving page here:
Lisa Tavendale is fundraising for London Hearts Charity (justgiving.com)
We welcome applications from any organisation or charity around the UK! Apply online here
Have a project in mind? Give us a call on 02070432493 or drop us an email at info@londonhearts.org
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