Sandhills Community College recently received a donation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) from Buck and Marianne Kernan of Pinehurst. The AED, which was obtained through HeartSafe Moore County, is a safe, effective, and easy-to-use method of restoring the heart to its natural rhythm.

"Buck and I are so supportive of this program, since we both come from families with a history of heart problems," said Marianne Kernan. "What better way to ensure emergency intervention to those that either take classes or work at SCC than by donating an AED for use in Van Dusen Hall."

With sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the heart stops abruptly, without warning. It is the leading cause of death in the U.S. -- killing almost 400,000 Americans -- hundreds of them are children.

"Statistics show that when a defibrillator is available and is used, the chances of surviving a heart0related incident increase significantly, so it is very important that the college have access to these," said Dave Reece, Director of Campus Safety and Security for the college.

With the new acquisition, Sandhills now has three defibrillators on the Pinehurst campus, and all are located in buildings that see significant activity from students and the community.

The American Heart Association recommends defibrillation treatment within the first 3-5 minutes of the onset of sudden cardiac arrest. Statistics indicate that an individual suffering cardiac arrest outside a hospital where AEDs are not present has only a five percent chance of survival.

The Kernans support the college through their participation in the Ruth Pauley Lecture Series and as a Sandhills Guarantor. Marianne Kernan also frequently enrolls in courses offered by the college's Department of Continuing Education.

HeartSafe Moore County is raising awareness of SCA and the need to improve the heart health and safety of all Moore County residents and visitors. The organization, and its partners, is working to develop a network of AEDs that are widely and readily available throughout the community.

Robin Cummings, M.D., a retired cardiothoracic surgeon, who serves as chairman of HeartSafe Moore County, identified four steps in the American Heart Association's 'chain of survival' for cardiac arrest victims: early activation of 911, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillation, and transfer to a medical facility.

"We have good resources in Moore County for steps one, two and four, but not defibrillation," said Cummings. "HeartSafe Moore County is taking steps to strengthen the third link."

Those interested in purchasing for donation an AED can contact Heartsafe Moore County at 947-6500 or visit www.heartsafemoore.org.

Reprinted with permission, The Pilot, Southern Pines, NC