In February 2008, the Jericho Athletic Association (JAA) Board of Directors approved a program for the implementation of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) for all of Jericho's playing fields. The JAA in conjunction with the Jericho Fire District implemented the AED program this past spring. We asked the community to support the goal of having an AED on every field where our children play and where our parents coach. The JAA has now placed 12 AEDs at or near most of Jericho's playing fields. Just as importantly, in conjunction with the Jericho Fire District (JFD), over 130 of the JAA coaches have received the AED/CPR training and received certification. "Simply, AEDs save lives". "Having our coaches certified in AED management and CPR clearly makes a difference, and will save lives states Andrew Marshall, M.D., JAA Board member, and director of the AED Program. Marshall was influenced greatly by the tragic death of Robbie Levine, and the inspiring achievements and dedication from both Jill and Craig Levine, founders of the Robbie Levine Foundation.

It is estimated that more than 300,000 Americans of all ages die of sudden cardiac arrest every year. Sudden cardiac arrest is usually due to an irregular cardiac rhythm (arrhythmia), and unless a normal heart rhythm is restored, death will follow within a matter of minutes. SCA can strike anyone of any age, at any time, anywhere and without warning signs. By adding AED's and properly training coaches and citizens, many tragedies can be prevented.

On November 12,, a Jericho resident and JAA Coach Brandt Josephson, were at work when without warning a co-worker collapsed. The co-worker was unconscious and immediately went into a seizure. As a recent graduate of the JAA/JFDs AED/CPR training program, Brandt was able to help until the EMS responded. The co-worker is doing much better. Jericho Fire District Commissioner and program co director, David Marmann said, "The JFD is proud to be part of a program which makes our residents safer. While we hope to never use the AEDs or the skills we have been provided, it is comforting to know that the coaches of the JAA are prepared to take actions to save lives in the event of an emergency."

"The Jericho Athletic Association is implementing the next phase of its AED program by broadening the number of trained coaches, expanding the training to referees, and opening classes to the public." added Marshall. The JAA is planning to continue its fundraising efforts and hopes to raise enough funds to purchase defibrillators to support our travel teams.

If you are interested in making a contribution to this life saving cause or are interested in starting a program in your community, please contact either Andrew Marshall at jajamarshall@aol.com (Jericho Athletic Association) or Dave Marmann at dmarmann@optonline.net (Jericho Fire District).