Fundraising sisters donate defibrillator
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Culloden Academy has taken delivery of a defibrillator thanks to the fundraising efforts of two sisters.
Paige Glendinning (12), a pupil at the school, and her sister Alicia (8) who attends Cradlehall Primary, set out to raising enough to install one of the devices in each school.
Having raised over £1200 so far, the siblings have now handed over the first device, provided by charity Lucky2BHere.
The organisation also provided staff with training.
Proud mum Elaine said: “It’s a very proud moment.
“The enthusiasm from the teachers when they were doing the training was fantastic. We’re delighted with how that went and the girls are very proud as well.
“It’s a vital piece of lifesaving equipment.”
To raise funds, the sisters organised an evening with mediums Tommy Goodwin and Stevie Trolland at the Chieftain Hotel. They were supported by several local businesses, including Highland Industrial Supplies, Culloden House Hotel, Dores Inn and Inverness Kart Raceway.
“Everyone has been so generous in giving us something to make this happen,” Miss Glendinning said.
“All this wouldn’t have been possible without Tommy and Stevie, because they made the medium night such a success.
“We are looking forward to the next one which will be at some point in the spring.”
Lucky2BHere volunteer trainer Peter White said: “Paige and Alicia have done so well. It’s great for the area.
“As well as having the defibrillators, it’s also about people knowing what to do.
“Even though they are very simple to use, it’s important that people feel confident enough to use them.
“That’s why we provide training.”
Culloden Academy’s depute rector John Taylor was among the teachers who received training.
“We have 16 members of staff trained in how to use the device and we are planning to train more,” he said.
“We are also planning to offer both basic first aid training and defibrillator training to some pupils.
“Obviously we hope it will never be needed, but if it is, we know people will have the knowledge and confidence to be able to use it.”
