Saving hearts and lives on Valentine’s Day
Student paramedics at the University of Brighton led a sponsored 24-hour CPR marathon to raise funds for the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex.
From 9am on Valentine’s Friday through to 9am on the Saturday students and staff participated in continuous CPR sessions. They were joined by members of the KSS helicopter medical team and charity volunteers.
The Paramedic Science students also offered training in CPR on special mannequins to university staff and students who wanted to learn the skill.
The 24-hour sponsored marathon was the brainchild of Paramedic Science student Emily Sammut, who came up with the idea after seeing KSS in action while on placement as part of her course.
Emily said: “Many of us, even as students, have had the opportunity to work alongside KSS on missions and it’s clear how crucial they are as a resource. KSS is largely funded by donations and so we wanted to give back to them so they can continue to do the amazing work they have been doing.
“It has been a goal of mine to set up an event with the aim of bringing together the three paramedic cohorts at Brighton to support an amazing cause. It has been lovely to see us join forces and work to create this outstanding event which has grown bigger and better than I ever imagined.”
As well as raising funds for KSS, the University of Brighton students hope to raise awareness of the importance of learning CPR. Over 80% of cardiac arrests happen in the home but, without immediate application of lifesaving measures only one in ten survive. Having someone who can administer CPR while waiting for help can dramatically increase the chances of survival.
The student paramedics have raised over £4,500 to date.
Kerry Burnett • 26/02/2025