Emily Breen

Support the Irish Heart Foundation

On May 15th, my partner Conor suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home. Fortunately, I was present at the time and was able to deliver life saving CPR. After being cared for by the wonderful ICU and CCU team, Conor was able to be discharged home with an internal defibrillator in place. As a nurse myself, thankfully I had the training to respond to a cardiac arrest.

Unfortunately, the survival rate of a cardiac arrest outside of hospital is low. On average globally the survival rate is only 8-10%. This depends on fast action, including immediate compressions by a bystander and the quick use of a public defibrillator. Without CPR survival rate drops by 10% every minute. 

Bystander CPR starts blood flow before help arrives and can double or triple a persons chance of survival.

I am taking part in the 60 in September for the Irish Heart Foundation. I am walking 60km to raise awareness of the importance of CPR training and to raise vital funds. The IHF have been a source of information, reassurance and comfort while both myself and Conor navigate this new chapter of our lives. 

The wonderful staff of Top Flat Ward Temple Street are also hosting a bake sale on 28th of September to help raise even more funds.

If you take one thing away from our experience, let it be to attend a CPR course and know where your nearest public defibrillator is located. 

The Irish Heart Foundation’s mission is to eliminate preventable death and disability from heart disease and stroke and to support and care for those living with these life-changing conditions.

Your donation will make a real difference to people and families affected by heart disease and stroke.
We are here for every heartbeat.

Thank you for visiting my page and for your support ❤️❤️❤️