By Adam Evans
A WELSH charity boss has told how requests for defibrillators and CPR training have rocketed because of high profile cases of cardiac arrest in the sporting world.
Denmark star Christian Eriksen infamously collapsed on the pitch during the European football Championships and only a week ago the Newcastle United v Tottenham match was delayed because a supporter needed emergency treatment at St James’ Park.
Thankfully both Eriksen and the Newcastle fan were saved by quick-acting medics, but Sharon Owen, director of the Calon Hearts charity, says they are now inundated with requests for aid in the form of equipment provision and training.
She said: “To be honest they (defibrillators) should be everywhere. They are very important life-saving devices.
“We work closely with the FAW aswell as the WRU to get defibrillators into all Welsh rugby clubs.
“We have everybody’s support in our work and they truly value what we do.
“We have amazing volunteers that help us with CPR training with admin, so we are blessed in that respect.
“Since June 12th, when the Christian Eriksen incident happened we have been inundated with requests for defibrillators and CPR training.
“If we can help our colleagues in the emergency services get as many defibrillators out there as possible then the safer place Wales will be.”
Calon Hearts have helped the Welsh Rugby Union provide defibrillators at every club in Wales.
Sharon added: “It is massively important to have defibrillators pitchside at all games and that is why the WRU are working with us now.
“Many rugby clubs have got them but the defibs are in the club, and It isn’t good if the pitch is away from the club, or they are away on tour.
“They need to have it as part of their medical kit. It should be as regularly as that.
“Even if the other club haven’t got one, somebody needs to have a defibrillator at the side of the pitch, because as we know every second counts.
