By: Sarah Wright | Troy Times | Published October 16, 2024
TROY — State Rep. Sharon MacDonell, D-Troy, presented a new automated external defibrillator to Troy High School Oct. 10, courtesy of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin, in association with the NFL.
An AED is a portable electronic device that can diagnose heart issues and provide treatment via electric pulses.
According to a press release from MacDonell’s office, new legislation requires schools to maintain AEDs and ensure they are accessible within one to three minutes during a cardiac emergency.
In April, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan House Bills 5527 and 5528, which require all high school coaches to maintain valid certification for CPR and the use of AEDs. The legislation also requires schools to have a cardiac emergency response plan in place to quickly react in the event that a student athlete experiences a cardiac issue.
In celebration of the new law, Hamlin and the NFL donated 50 AEDs for Michigan legislators to distribute to schools in their districts.
“This generous donation of an AED Machine to Troy High School will provide critical life-saving capabilities to our staff and students,” Troy School District Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives Kendra Montante said in an email. “In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest, an AED can dramatically improve survival chances when used promptly alongside CPR. Having an AED readily available allows trained staff to respond immediately, offering crucial support before emergency medical services arrive. For students, staff, and visitors, this machine provides peace of mind, ensuring that the school is better equipped to handle unexpected health emergencies. It enhances overall safety and reflects a commitment to the well-being of the school community. With this device, Troy High can quickly respond to potential cardiac incidents, ensuring that help is available in those precious moments that matter most.”
The AED was presented around 6:40 p.m., before a football game between the Colts and the Farmington High School Falcons.
“The safety and security of our students, teachers, staff, and those just visiting the school for an event is a top priority of mine,” MacDonell said in a press release. “I’m happy to have delivered this lifesaving device to Troy High School, my daughters’ alma mater. Should the need for this device ever arise, it will be here, ready for use.”
For more information, visit www.troy.k12.mi.us.