Defibrillator a lifesaver at church

[LindaNY]

It's been my desire for years to see these in all public buildings, shops, theaters, etc and on street corners. Unfortunately CPR alone rarely saves a life
We used these for years on the Ambulance and hospital and saw what a critically important life saving tool they are.


www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/NEWS01/706280348/1001/

UNION -- Robert Kalmbacher of Vestal is alive today because he went to church -- one that had just been equipped with a defibrillator donated by United Health Services Hospitals.

"I'm living proof that it could save a life," Kalmbacher said Wednesday from his bed at Wilson Regional Medical Center in Johnson City, where he is recovering from valve-replacement surgery. He is scheduled to be released Friday.

Kalmacher, 51, is believed to be the first person in Broome County whose life was saved by defibrillators donated by UHS to eight non-profit organizations in February, including United With Christ Church on Robinson Hill Road in the Town of Union. Kalmacher was attending services there June 17 when he had a heart attack.

"It just speaks volumes on how defibrillators can make a difference," said Matthew Salanger, president and chief executive officer of UHS.

On June 17, Kalmacher said he wasn't feeling well and almost stayed home. His girlfriend, Pam Fitzgerald of Endicott, convinced him to go.

"We stood up to sing the first song, 'Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord,'" she said. "And he blacked right out."

Barbara Weiler, a nurse and children's ministry director at the church, used the defibrillator to shock Kalmbacher's heart. She and head usher Charles Smolinsky, nursery director Tammy Buck and church secretary Sandy Clark took turns administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Two heart-related fatalities have occurred on church property.

[Blossom/Jackie W.]

These ARE life savers Linda. They have them throughout the airports and somewhere I saw one just lately (dartned if I can remember where) in a large store..It'll come to me.

[larrynz]

Two heart-related fatalities have occurred on church property.
.................................................................................
Sounds like a good reason to change to another church

[LindaNY]

Sounds like a good reason to change to another church

Good point Larry. ;D