North Swindon MP Becomes A Defibrillator Champion

Every single year in the UK, 30,000 people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest. Sadly, just less than 1-in-10 survive. It’s time to take action.

As part of European Restart a Heart Day Justin Tomlinson MP visited The Oliver King Foundation at their launch event in Westminster to show support. 

The Oliver King Foundation setup following the tragic death of 12-year-old Oliver King from a sudden cardiac arrest, which kills 12 young people every single week. Oliver was winning a swimming race at school. In 2012 footballer Fabrice Muamba was shocked 16 times by a lifesaving defibrillator in front of the nation.

Early access to a defibrillator is vital. For every minute that passes, chances of survival drop by 10%.

Justin Tomlinson MP said: “I am proud to become a lifesaving Defibrillator Champion for Swindon. It is vital that we take action to prevent any loss of life where one can be saved. I will be working with local schools in my constituency to fundraise and get lifesaving defibrillators in our area, protecting our students, teachers and visitors whilst at school. I lost my dad at an early age when he suffered a cardiac arrest, so this is a very personal campaign for me. Since I entered Parliament in 2010 I have spoken out on the importance of teaching life-saving skills in schools as well as the importance of having Defibrillators available within our local community. I will be pushing for more to be installed and I am delighted as ever to support the Oliver King Foundation alongside other organisations including the British Heart Foundation, of which I am a local patron.”

Jake Morrison, Chief Executive of The Oliver King Foundation said: “We are delighted that Justin has signed up as a Defibrillator Champion. It is important that we spread awareness of the vital need for this equipment in our communities. Our Members of Parliament have a great platform and connection in their constituencies to spread this message. We look forward to continue working with Justin and saving lives for years to come.”

Mark King, father of 12-year-old Oliver King who died from a sudden cardiac arrest said: “5 years ago when my son Oliver passed away from this hidden heart condition, we didn’t know that his legacy would reach this far. We are determined to save as many young lives as possible, so that no other family has to suffer a similar loss to that of ours.”

For more information please contact The Oliver King Foundation on 01517283470 or email info@theoliverkingfoundation.co.uk