San Luis Valley Health Providers and Foundation Donate Two AEDs to Alamosa Volunteer Search and Rescue
Pictured: (from left to right) Carissa Tripi, DO, Bethany Caton, ACNP-C, Justin Buchholz, DO, Kelly Gurule, Michael Shell, DO, Chris Hendricks, Julian Maendel, MD, Sarah Lewing, MD, Laticia Hollingsworth, PA-C, Clint Sowards, DO
On September 18, the Provider Leadership Council (PLC) at San Luis Valley Health (SLV Health) presented Chris Hendricks of the Alamosa Volunteer Search and Rescue (AVSAR) with two Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for their volunteers to use in emergency rescue situations. The donation was a combined effort between the PLC and the SLV Health Foundation.
Providers Giving Back to the Community
Representing all providers at SLV Health, the PLC seeks out community projects that support the organization’s mission of improving the lives and health of people throughout the San Luis Valley. Dr. Clint Sowards, DO, the PLC Chair, emphasized the importance of AVSAR having AEDs when completing missions, saying, “Equipping AVSAR with these AEDs gives them the tools they need to save lives when every second counts. When their volunteers are the first on the scene in a critical emergency, we are beyond proud to support them with the life-saving equipment that they need.”
AEDs are medical devices that are used to help those experiencing cardiac arrest. According to Dr. Sowards, “AEDs are highly effective medical devices and can significantly increase the survival rate when used quickly.”
Pictured: (from left to right) Clint Sowards, DO and Chris Hendricks
Saving Even More Lives
AVSAR expressed deep gratitude for the donation of the AEDs and reassured them that they would be available on upcoming missions. Steve Yaffe, AVSAR member, said, " Thank you to SLV Health for your donation. The AED tools that you have provided are a game changer when it comes to resuscitation. AVSAR Rescue Team members have extreme exposure to lightning risk. Team members also have the real possibility of encountering a sick family member, friend, or other visitor during training exercises or Rescue Missions. Your AED donation provides peace of mind for us and visitors to our fabulous outdoors."
While this donation was facilitated through the PLC, it represents the generosity and commitment of all the providers at SLV Health. Together, they share the hope that this equipment will make a lasting difference in our community and provide lifesaving support when it is needed most.