Lifesaving defibrillator unveiled in Killinarden
THE generosity of the Killinarden community and the determination of staff from a local pharmacy led to the installation of a defibrillator on the gates outside Mace Killinarden last week.
The initiative was led by staff from Pharmacy Hub Killinarden, with pharmacy technician Roxana Preluca adding that she hopes the defibrillator will “save as many lives as possible”.
The unveiling of the defibrillator last Wednesday, July 12, marked the culmination of many weeks of work by pharmacy hub owner Michelle O’Hagan and her staff to get the idea off the ground.
Staff from the pharmacy were undergoing training with paramedic Craig Wade from Tallaght Community First Responders, when Ms O’Hagan suggested placing a defibrillator in the area.
Pharmacy Hub staff members then undertook a two-day fundraising drive last May, where they – along with members of the community – cycled on a static bike on front of the shop.
Players from local sports club Sacred Heart FC also took part, and members of the community gave generously to the campaign which raised €1,400 for the piece of life-saving equipment.
Speaking to The Echo this week, pharmacy technician Roxana Preluca said: “The people around the community are very good and very supportive, they appreciated this initiative.
“It was very rewarding to see all of the money that we raised going into something like this, and we’ve all had CPR training, so if something happens, we have all of the resources here.”
The defibrillator is attached to the gate at the front of Mace and is only accessible by using a code which shop and pharmacy staff have, as do the emergency services.
The easy-to-use piece of equipment has clear voice instructions for users, however the pharmacy is hoping to hold training for members of the community who may be usure about how to use it.
“We’re hoping the defibrillator will help to save as many lives as possible,” added Ms Preluca.
“Fingers crossed, we won’t have to use it, but the fact that it’s there means people can get to it quickly, and it could save someone’s life.”
