The Ashcroft and District Lions Club knows the importance of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
A member of their club was in a fitness class and had a heart issue. A quick response and easy access to an AED saved the person's life. An AED device can analyze the heart rhythm of someone in cardiac arrest and deliver an electric shock to reestablish a normal heart rhythm.
This living example of what a working AED can do meant when the Lions were approached by the Cache Creek Volunteer Fire Department (CCVFD) to fundraise for a new AED when the CCVFD AED reached the end of its life, they were on board.
"It's near and dear to our hearts," said Sue Peters, Lions Club member, with no pun intended.
She said the club works closely with both the CCVFD and the Ashcroft Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) and the club also prioritizes the safety of their first responders.
So the club purchased the AED and presented it to the fire chief back in July.
She said the area Lions Club is "small but mighty" with 16 members aged from their 50s to 90 years old.
"We do a lot for a little club," said Peters, noting every one of those 16 members are active volunteers and the group is fortunate enough to be well-supported by the community.
"It's an amazing group of people and I love working with them," she said of her fellow Lions.
Along with ongoing fundraising like their monthly bingo, hosting a concession at the fall fair and a food trailer they take to community events, the group also does an annual raffle.
The raffle is currently underway, with a first prize of $1,000 cash, $500 for both second and third prizes and $250 for fourth.
A draw will take place on Dec. 13 and tickets are available from any Lions Club member.
Peters said the club includes members from both Ashcroft and Cache Creek, and the group supports youth sports, cadets, the food bank, Children's Hospital and other causes.
Always looking for new members, anyone interested in getting involved can contact Sue Peters at sjpeters14@gmail.com.
