CHICAGO (WBBM) — A defibrillator nearby can save a life in the event of a heart attack, and the state of Illinois is trying to encourage their installation and use.
The simplicity of the defibrillators, and the life-saving results, were underscored as the the state handed out its annual “Heartsaver Hero” awards to those who used them — and saved 10 people’s lives.
When Jack Hummel collapsed last June 26 at the Edward Health and Fitness Center, in Naperville, staff knew how to use the automated defibrillator unit mounted on the wall.
Hummel has since been fitted for a pacemaker, but said he knows how fortunate he was.
“If it wasn’t for these three people, I wouldn’t be here,” he said. “They did a super job and I’m very proud of it.”
After fitness center staff member Eric Gustafson used the defibrillator on Hummel, staff members Tracy Trimble and Laura LaRue performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation until paramedics could arrive.
“It’s such a thrill to see him walk in that door every time we do,” LaRue said.
Lance Lawson’s story is similar – to a point. When he collapsed in December while playing basketball with friends at the Naperville YMCA, only lifeguard Justin Gedner could make the defibrillator work.
“He was about the 15th person (to try),” Lawson said. “All the guys who I played with, none of them had any success with it.”
Lawson said he was told afterward that the leads for the defibrillator’s paddles were not placed properly.
Saving Lawson may have changed Gedner’s life as well. Gedner, a student at the College of DuPage, said he has always had an interest in medicine.
“After saving Lance I really want to be a paramedic-firefighter now,” he said.
Many of the machines give automated verbal directions explaining how to use them and whether a second shock is needed. Defibrillators have been required by state law since 2005 in schools, as well as at indoor park district and physical fitness facilities. Gov. Pat Quinn signed a measure six weeks ago extending the requirement to all indoor and outdoor sporting events.
The state maintains a Heartsaver Fund that provides matching grants to schools and park districts to assist in the purchase of automated defibrillators.
Read the original article from WBBM News Radio.
Distributed via Chicago Press Release Services