$52K Raised To Put AEDs Throughout South Jersey

EGG HARBOR TWP., NJ — Thousands were recently raised during American Heart Month to place more automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the South Jersey community.

The Heart & Lung Institute at AtlantiCare held its 15th annual Red Dress/Red Tie Reception on Feb. 8, where guests wore red to raise awareness of heart disease - the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, according to an AtlantiCare news release.

About 320 people attended the American Heart Month event at the Carriage House in Galloway, which raised more than $52,000, AtlantiCare officials said.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Heart Heroes, an AtlantiCare Foundation-funded program that places AEDs in the community. Donated on behalf of the Heart & Lung Institute at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, AEDs can restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest.

“Cardiac arrest is a critical moment where every second counts and the use of an AED is a game-changer in these life-or-death situations,” said Michael G. Link, MD, FACC, electrophysiologist, AtlantiCare Physician Group (APG) Cardiology. “As a cardiologist, I can’t stress enough the importance of widespread AED availability because every community member, whether trained or not, has the potential to save a life.”

“Thanks to the generosity of so many individuals, the Red Dress/Red Tie Reception has raised nearly $395,000 since its inception 15 years ago. We are incredibly moved by the unwavering support of our community in the fight against heart disease,” said Michael J. Charlton, President and CEO of AtlantiCare. “This week’s reception serves as a powerful reminder that by coming together, we can raise awareness about heart disease and make a difference in people’s lives.”

The Heart Heroes program, which began in 2002, helps fund a portion of AED costs for eligible organizations throughout the South Jersey community. Since its implementation, the program has placed 441 AEDs in the community with the goal of saving the lives of those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. According to AtlantiCare, it has the only full-service cardiac program in southeastern New Jersey and is led by an expert team including skilled cardiologists, surgeons, specially trained nurses and support staff.

For more information about the AED Heart Heroes Program, please visit www.atlanticare.org/aed.