MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – February is American Heart Month. Each year, the Superior Health Foundation holds their AED program, providing tax-exempt, non-profit organizations across the U.P. with these life saving devices.
Typically, the Superior Health Foundation sends out 8-10 AEDs to organizations who request them on a first come, first serve basis. This year, they were able to work alongside the community to raise $10,000 and send out 30 AEDs throughout the Upper Peninsula.
The average cost of an AED is around $1500, and with the major importance of these life saving machines, the need for them is in high demand. “Its a weight off our shoulders knowing that we are prepared to provide the correct services needed if something were to happen,” said Ashley Roberts, executive director of Ishpeming’s Multi-Purpose Senior Center. The Senior Center is a first time recipient of the AED program this year, after struggling to receive a new device for some time.
Already this month, all 30 AEDs have been sent out to their requested organizations. For more information regarding next years program, visit their website at SuperiorHealthFoundation.org