News

Partners of Crossing Rivers Health have purchased and donated two AEDs (Automatic External Defibrillators) for Athletic Training at Crossing Rivers Health. Licensed Athletic Trainers Mark Seeley and Penny Grassel are appreciative of the generous $3400 donation to purchase the AEDs. The two provide medical care for Boscobel, Prairie du Chien, River Ridge and Wauzeka School Districts.

Mark Seeley explains the importance of having an AED on site during sporting events. He said, “Evidence suggests that the risk of a cardiac event is higher during or immediately following, vigorous exercise. According to the American Heart Association, as many as 7,000 youth die of sudden cardiac arrest each year.”

Penny Grassel adds, “The single most effective treatment of sudden cardiac arrest is defibrillation, a shock delivered to the heart. Placing a call to 911 is necessary, but the wait for first responders may take too long. And if an AED is in the school building, it would be nearly impossible to be able to retrieve it quickly. Every second counts! While we hope that the AED is never needed, it is a vital tool when responding to sudden cardiac arrest. The device is now part of our emergency action plan to help protect the safety of athletes, coaches, officials and spectators in the event of a medical emergency.”