Earlier this year Capt. Gail Lazenby of the Villages Public Safety Dept. came to one of our neighborhood socials to discuss the importance of having AEDs in each neighborhood. Gail is an excellent speaker and staunch proponent of this program. As a group we felt that this was definitely something we would want. A small group was formed to coordinate efforts to inform all the residents in our neighborhood known as The Buttonwood Islanders about the program. Emails were sent out explaining the program and asking if the residents would be willing to financially support it. With almost 100 percent participation we went forward establishing a checking account, collecting the money, buying the equipment and receiving training. We are proud that our neighborhood now has two AEDs along with trained first responders.
I also attended Dr. Ewy's presentation yesterday and was glad to see so many Villagers in attendance. I hope that others are motivated to contact Capt. Lazenby and begin the steps to make their neighborhood an AED one. It is not hard to do and the life that's saved could be yours.
The Public Safety Department has CPR training for anyone who is interested in it. The training does not take a lot of time. Talk to you neighbors, make the call and come on board.
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