January 18, 2008–KALAMAZOO, MI–Ronald Dundon had a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in February 2003. The attending emergency team’s use of CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED) saved him. After his recovery, Dundon founded the AED Fund of Kalamazoo County, Michigan to help increase the chances of survival for future SCA victims in underserved communities.
The AED Fund raises money to purchase AEDs for first responders, high schools, and middle schools in Kalamazoo county. The organization has also formed partnerships with Kalamazoo County Medical Control and the Emergency Medical Services system to ensure that hard-pressed fire departments receive this life-saving device. Additionally, the AED Fund educates the public about the need for CPR and AED training and where to get it. As a certified CPR instructor, Ronald teaches basic CPR classes free of charge.
Ronald's research has indicated that with Michigan's current economic downturn, most first responders (county sheriffs, public safety officers, and fire departments) have limited budgets to purchase AEDs. Responders in rural areas might have only one unit available, if any. To address this, the AED Fund has placed 39 defibrillators in the hands of first responders in Kalamazoo county, helping to increase its overall "save rate." Ronald's group has since expanded its reach and given away dozens of devices to help equip first-responders in cities and towns throughout Kalamazoo county.
Ronald Dundon learned that many communities in Michigan had a pressing need for the same medical equipment and training that saved his life. He became a crusader for CPR and AEDs, speaking to civic groups, clubs, fraternal organizations, and labor unions throughout the county. Most importantly, through his volunteer work with the AED Fund, Ronald has helped ensure that first responders in Michigan have the training and equipment to save many lives.
For more information, visit www.aedfund.org.