Longford community supports big fundraising night for update of Killashee Clondra defibrillators
The Killashee/Clondra Defibrillator Group's fundraising evening held last Friday was heralded as a great success by organisers.
“It was a remarkable evening. There was a large turnout, I would say packed,” organiser Joe Tyrrell, one of two voluntary Chairs of the group, told the Leader.
The pub quiz and raffle hauled in close to €20,000 toward funding the upgrade of the resources to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.
Quizmaster in The Richmond Inn, Clondra on Friday evening was Cllr Mark Casey. Cllr Casey put up to 30 tables through their paces on general knowledge, sport and entertainment.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Colm Murray was on one of the teams competing for quiz glory. Cllr Murray also added an official air to proceedings by selecting the winning ticket in the raffle draw.
Joint Treasurer of the committee, Catherine Egan, spoke of her delight with the support for the fundraiser: “I am very happy with the money raised. I want to say a big thanks to the people who bought raffle tickets and those who came along last Friday night for the quiz. Their help can make a huge difference and even save a life.”
The community defibrillator is a crucial piece of equipment. If the heart rhythm stops due to cardiac arrest, also known as sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a defibrillator may help it start beating again. Community volunteers are trained in the use of the device.
Niamh McPartland, the other joint Chair of the Group said the fundraising efforts have been very successful so far: “The raffle was very well supported. We were overwhelmed by the number of people who came out for the quiz. There really is a great community spirit in this area.”