Bolton West and Atherton MP Chris Green has become a defibrillator champion for the area after meeting a charity set up in memory of a 12-year-old who died following a sudden cardiac arrest.
As part of European Restart a Heart Day the MP joined the Oliver King Foundation at their launch event in Westminster to show support. The Foundation was set up following the tragic death of 12-year-old Oliver King from a sudden cardiac arrest whilst he was winning a swimming race at school.
Every year in the UK, 30,000 people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest, with just less than one in ten surviving. Each week, 12 young people are killed.
Early access to a defibrillator is vital. For every minute that passes, chances of survival drop by 10%. In 2012, Bolton Wanderers footballer Fabrice Muamba was shocked 16 times by a lifesaving defibrillator in front of the nation.
Signing up to become a Defibrillator Champion for Bolton West and Atherton, Chris said:
“It is vital that we take action to prevent any loss of life where one can be saved and I am proud to become a Defibrillator Champion for Bolton West and Atherton.
“It was interesting to hear from the Foundation about how many lives have been saved, including a caretaker at a school who had only received the defibrillator two weeks earlier.
“I will be delighted to work as a Defibrillator Champion, saving lives is a legacy that we can all be proud of.”
Jake Morrison, Chief Executive of The Oliver King Foundation, said:
“We are delighted that Chris Green has signed up as a Defibrillator Champion. It is important that we spread awareness of the vital need for this equipment in our communities.
“Our Members of Parliament have a great platform and connection in their constituencies to spread this message. We look forward to working with Chris and saving lives for years to come.”
Mark King, father of 12-year-old Oliver King who died from a sudden cardiac arrest, said:
“Five years ago when my son Oliver passed away from this hidden heart condition, we didn’t know that his legacy would reach this far.
“We are determined to save as many young lives as possible, so that no other family has to suffer a similar loss to that of ours.”