Gemma's Story

An Emergency on the Beach

On 28th August 2023, Gemma from Aston Lodge faced a life-or-death emergency on a beach in Anglesey, Wales. A 10-year-old boy suddenly collapsed due to an undiagnosed heart condition, and every second counted.

Thanks to Gemma’s quick action performing CPR and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, the nearby community defibrillator being accessible, and the swift arrival of emergency services, the boy’s life was saved. It was the combination of these lifesaving steps, the entire chain of survival, that made all the difference.

“I was able to deliver CPR and mouth to mouth but the thing that saved his life was the shock from a community defibrillator which was located nearby.
As soon as the shock was delivered, he came back to life and he started to breathe for himself again. He was airlifted to hospital where he received the care to treat his condition. The quick access to the defibrillator really did save his life.”

Gemma, Community Champion

Inspired to Act for Her Community

Moved by the life-saving event on the beach, Gemma looked around her own neighbourhood and realised there was no defibrillator on her housing estate. Determined to make a difference, she contacted AEDdonate to start a fundraising campaign to provide one locally.

In just four weeks, Gemma successfully raised the funds needed, and the defibrillator was installed on her home, accessible to everyone in the community who might need it.

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Awareness and Confidence

To ensure neighbours felt confident using the device, Gemma organised a well-attended training event complete with demonstrations and even a community BBQ. The event brought people together and raised vital awareness about the importance of defibrillators.

Gemma and her family regularly monitor the defibrillator, with checks managed through The Circuit – The National Defibrillator Network – making sure it’s always ready to save lives when needed.

Training & Events

Join Gemma in Making a Difference

Now Aston Lodge has a working, registered defibrillator ready for emergencies — it could save a neighbour’s life. If you want to bring a defibrillator to your local area, AEDdonate can help. We offer part-funding and ongoing support to make your community safer.