Winnipeg, March 31, 2014. Hillel Winnipeg, the Jewish Students’ Association on campus, will present two “Mikey” defibrillators to The University of Winnipeg on April 2nd, 12:30 – 1:15, at the entrance of The Richardson College for the Environment and Science Complex. To honour this generous gift a ribbon cutting ceremony will be held, followed by a demonstration on using an AED and a reception.

The Mikey Network was established in memory of Mike Salem, who passed away of a heart attack twelve years ago when no defibrillator was accessible. The Network promotes heart-healthy living and increasing public access to defibrillators (“Mikeys”). As part of their mission to contribute positively to campus life, two “Mikeys” will be donated to the University of Winnipeg by the students of Hillel.

Ethelinda Padua, Safety and Health Specialist of the University of Winnipeg noted:

“When I first heard of their plans to donate an AED, I was very excited.  The accessibility and availability of these life saving devices not only benefit The University of Winnipeg campus, but also the surrounding community.   

Research indicates when an AED and CPR are immediately available the chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest is substantially improved and may increase the likelihood by 75% or more. 

Through generous donors, we have acquired a number of other AEDs. Within a few years, we hope to have these devices in every building. A sincere thank you to Hillel Winnipeg for being a part of this important process and helping us reach our goal."

Hillel Winnipeg has been actively involved in promoting heart health before. The organization sponsored an event to raise money and awareness for Israeli-based charity Save a Child’s Heart, which provides cardiac surgery at no cost for children in under-privileged areas.

“Community work and volunteerism is in line with the Jewish value of tzedakah, the Hebrew term for charity. It’s nice to transform the university from being just a place for learning into a community we can be a part of, to learn about other people’s groups, and to represent ourselves as well”, explains Josh Winestock, Director of Hillel Winnipeg.

“Being involved in Hillel and being able to give back to the university is a great way to get a break from the stress of school, while gaining experience outside the classroom,” says Maya Pollock, a Hillel student.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Josh Winestock

Jewish Federation of Winnipeg

204.480.6561204.480.6561 | [email protected]

www.jewishwinnipeg.org