New AEDs Installed - And a Life is Saved!

(July 2003) Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have recently been installed in all Saint Paul YMCA branches and camps for use in emergency situations. The alert staff at Camp St. Croix actually put one to use late last spring with wonderful results.

An environment education group was at Camp St. Croix when one of their teachers suddenly experienced chest pains and the symptoms of a heart attack. YMCA staff followed training procedures and administered AED treatment. The man responded, paramedics arrived, and the story was a very happy ending. Medical personnel confirmed that the use of the AED saved the man's life.

Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the United States. The widespread availability and use of AEDs is helping to raise the odds of survival. We're glad that we have them available at our YMCAs, and are proud of the Camp St. Croix staff for their very professional response.

(Taken from the YMCA Publication Hot Facts)