Play golf and save lives

Playing golf for Kilcullen could save the life of somebody you know: maybe even your own.

We are all used to seeing on TV dramas such as ER and Casualty the machines which are applied by doctors to the chests of people suffering heart attacks to shock their system into beating properly. These machines, known as defibrillators, have saved the lives of many people since they were invented.

Kilcullen Lions Club is running a Golf Classic to raise funds to purchase a mobile defibrillator to locate in the community.

“We have supported many worthy causes since the Kilcullen Lions Club was setup in 1996," says Lions Club President Jim Kiely, "but I am especially excited about this project because of the immediate positive impact it will have on our community."

Research has shown that survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest victims are low, but in communities where these mobile systems are in place survival rates of 30-50 percent and more are likely. The Kilcullen Lions Club plans to locate the defibrillator in an area easily accessible by those trained to use the system.

The Golf Classic will be held on 16 September 16 at Baltinglass Golf Club. Teams of four are invited to enjoy 18 holes on the excellent course, dinner and entertainment for €300 per team. A limited number of Tee Box sponsorships are aso available at €100 each.

“If this year’s event is as popular as last year’s then people should book early to guarantee their place at this very practical and beneficial community event,” says Jim Kiely.

To book a place call 087 2214880.

The Kilcullen Lions Club has raised several hundred thousand euros to look after needs in the community, especially those of the underprivileged and elderly. Recent projects involved assistance of KARE’s redevelopment of the old Cross and Passion Convent, sheltered housing and educational projects.

Padraig Maloney.
Kilcullen Lions Club.