Talbot County Council Recognizes National Heart Month and Donations Toward AEDs in County

Easton, MD – On Tuesday, February 11th, the Talbot County Council presented a proclamation in recognition of National Heart Month honoring local heroes championing heart health. Included in the presentation was recognition of individuals and organizations who have raised funds to support the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in Talbot County.

Team Trace, a nonprofit whose mission is to reach children who experience cardiac conditions, has provided funding for AEDs, climate-controlled cabinets, and the installation of these throughout the parks and sports fields in Easton, St. Michaels and Trappe. Team Trace has offered continued support to place further AEDs in locations that support children through their commitment of $25,000 to the Talbot County AED Program.

Karli Abbott of Trappe, a junior at Easton High School, has raised in excess of $5,000 as part of her 4-H Diamond Clover Project to provide AEDs at the Talbot Agriculture and Education Center, to provide early defibrillation to visitors and attendees of the Talbot County Fair, as well as at the Talbot County Extension Office.

In addition, the Talbot Paramedic Foundation has partnered with Talbot County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for 19 years to place AEDs in other locations across the County. The organization has received national awards due to its commitment and support of the community and Emergency Medical Services system. There are approximately 230 AEDs throughout Talbot County in such locations as schools, police cars, businesses, churches, and public spaces. The AEDs are maintained by Talbot County Department of Emergency Services.

Gary Jones, Regional Director Cardiovascular Services, University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UMSRH) and representing the Talbot County Paramedic Foundation, pointed out that bystander CPR training and AEDs are important links to the “Chain of Survival” during a cardiac event. Dr. Jeff Etherton, UMSRH Interventional Cardiology Program Director, reported that the Cardiology Program treated more than 200 individuals experiencing heart attacks last year.
ntional Cardiology Program Director; and Dr. Fredia Wadley, Talbot County Health Officer.