Help me turning 50 into saving a life

In early September, I celebrate my 50th birthday. As this milestone approaches, I've been reflecting on how fortunate I am and what I can do to make a positive difference.

What I would love this year is the chance to create something that could genuinely help others.

Instead of buying me a beer for my 50th, I'm asking family, friends, and supporters to contribute to my goal of raising $3,500 to purchase a high-quality AED through Wellington Free that I can carry in my vehicle at all times.

Over the years, I've attended numerous cardiac arrests in the community. As a physiotherapist, Event Medic with Wellington Free Ambulance, and a GoodSAM responder, I've often been the first person to arrive when someone has suffered a cardiac arrest.

I've seen firsthand how critical early CPR and rapid access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be. While AEDs are available in many public places, they're not always close enough when needed.

Having an AED readily available means when alerted to a nearby cardiac arrest, I can give someone the best possible chance of survival.

Every contribution, whether it's $5, $20, or $50, brings us closer to having another lifesaving resource available in our community.

I've always believed that people are more important than things. This birthday fundraiser is an opportunity to turn that belief into something practical that could benefit many people for years to come.

If you'd like to support this goal, any contribution would be greatly appreciated.