Cardiac patients in the Capital Region may soon have a better chance at survival, thanks to Concord Hospital's annual Challenge Scramble Golf Tournament. Funds raised at the event are being used to help provide at least one LUCAS2 Chest Compression Systems to first responders in the communities it serves through a unique fundraising partnership. Concord Hospital Trust has established a matching gift fund with tournament proceeds and is offering guidance in helping communities raise half of the cost of a LUCAS2. The matching gift fund will then contribute the balance.
The LUCAS2 Chest Compression System is a portable device that provides consistent chest compressions to a patient whose heart has stopped beating. Proper compressions are needed to keep blood circulating, carrying oxygen to the brain. Studies show that even rescuers who are well-trained and experienced in CPR often do not provide consistent chest compressions because of interruptions, fatigue or the location of the victim. Dr. Kenneth Deloge, a Concord Hospital Medical Group/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Concord cardiologist, said the LUCAS2 device provides life-saving compressions, for extended periods, even while a patient is being carried down flights of stairs on a stretcher.
The American Heart Association is now recommending that compressions be the first priority of first aid personnel because they will immediately establish the flow of oxygen rich blood to the brain, sustaining life.
The tournament, a single shotgun event, drew 144 golfers from throughout New England to compete for first, second and third place prizes, as well as several awards including longest drive, longest putt, closest to the pin and closest to the line.
Net winning team: Bruce Burns, Maureen Grande, Dave Larrivee Brian Pettinato.
For more information on LUCAS2 and this fundraising opportunity, call Concord Hospital Trust at 415-6624.
