Defibrillator Funds Russelled Up

On Saturday 19th December, during and after the Exeter Saracens match, members and guests at St Ives RFC raised in excess of the £400 needed to obtain a public access defibrillator to be sited in the club car park, for the use of club users and the wider community.

Where someone has a heart attack, early access to defibrillation can be the difference between a good and not-so-good outcome.

Part funded by the British Heart Foundation, who were themselves granted £1 million to have defib points across the nation, the unit is easy to use, although CPR and defibrillator training will be provided once it is installed.

Fundraiser Russell Baragwanath applied for the grant to have one installed at the club and then successfully raised funds with a bucket amongst the spectators, a raffle and an auction.

He commented,

“I'm so proud of the members and visitors to the club. To have exceeded the target in one day is outstanding. We will have a defibrillator for the use of the people of Uplong. I’m grateful to everyone who donated, particularly those who gave prizes, including the club’s medical team, Tescos, Will Nankervis, Lanhams, The Garrack Hotel and Sanders Fish Restaurant.”

Qualified Chartered Physiotherapist Russell is part of the team of physios at the club. He is also our CRFU representative.