The 10th annual LRGHealthcare Red Dress Gala fundraiser for LRGHealthcare was held on February 7 in Meredith. Guests enjoyed an evening of dinner and dancing as well as silent and live auctions. Over the years, this premier fundraising event has supported the greater Lakes Region community by raising more than $402,000 for cardiac services and technology. This year they added more than $62,500 to that total.

In April, Andover EMS was selected as one of four recipients, along with EMS agencies in Belmont, Bristol, and Sanbornton, to receive a LUCAS-2 automated CPR device as LRGH and its associated philanthropy efforts work to improve cardiac care throughout our region of New Hampshire. Andover EMS immediately held training for the use of the LUCAS, and additional training is being offered by LRGH in Laconia. I’m happy to report we had an excellent turnout for the training.

Our entire community owes LRGH immense gratitude for this extremely generous gesture. As I wrote in July ‘13, the LUCAS Chest Compression System is designed to deliver uninterrupted compressions at a consistent rate and depth to facilitate “return of spontaneous circulation.” It delivers automated compressions from first response in the field, through ambulance transport, and throughout initial hospital care.

LUCAS facilitates consistent blood flow from the moment it is turned on, helping to improve a patient’s chance for a successful outcome. As with nearly all advanced medical aids, the LUCAS device is not inexpensive. The value of this gift to our community, in dollars, exceeds $16,000. The value to the first life it changes will be priceless.

To learn more about how you can support LRGHealthcare with a gift, please contact the Office of Philanthropy at 737-1042 or Philanthropy@nullLRGH.org.