Hearts fluttered this weekend when NHS commissioners gave the gift of a defibrillator to Peter Pan Parkrun in west Hull.
On Saturday, 4 March, Dave Blain a paramedic and the Designated Professional for Safeguarding Adults with NHS Hull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) officially presented the machine to the group.
Parkrun, a not-for-profit organisation , which organises free, 5km fun runs at parks all around the world, including 438 in the UK, has been encouraging each of its groups to acquire the lifesaving equipment in case of a medical emergency.
To help achieve this goal, NHS Hull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) purchased the new defibrillator for the Peter Pan Parkrun and a training session for runners and volunteers has been organised, when Dave will show the group how to use the machine as well as CPR and basic life saving techniques.
Commenting on the gift of the defibrillator Dave Blain said:
“If a person suffers a cardiac arrest, having a defibrillator nearby can greatly increase their chances of survival. It’s a simple but effective piece of equipment.”
“I’m only too happy to present the Parkrun with its own defibrillator. We looked into the idea of buying one and felt that it was the right thing to do. Every week, the group helps to encourage people to get out, get running and get fitter. So we’re pleased to help them stay safer as well.”
Rob Newton, of Peter Pan Parkrun said:
“We’re delighted that NHS Hull CCG have kindly provided this vital piece of equipment and the associated training. Although we hope that we never have to deploy it, having immediate access to the defibrillator is most reassuring. A very big thank you from everyone at Peter Pan parkrun.”
The Peter Pan Parkrun first started on 13 April, 2013 and meets every Saturday at 9am to run 5km around the park. It attracts an average of 130 runners every week. New runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome.
You can find out more at their website: http://www.parkrun.org.uk/peterpan/
