Bushey Rangers FC and Bushey Amateur Boxing Club recently accepted the 100th defibrillator provided by local charity Wayne’s Fund.
The sports clubs recently hosted a fundraising event at their home of Moatfield, pitting the young athletes against each other in sponsored fun run races to help raise the money needed for the vital piece of equipment.
Following this event, the young competitors, their parents and club officials gathered at the clubhouse on Saturday, August 3. Glyn and John Pope, co-founders of the charity and brother and father respectively of its namesake Wayne Pope, handed over the new defibrillator.
Wayne’s sudden passing from sudden arrhythmic death syndrome at the age of 30 in 2005 inspired his family to do something in his name that would make sure that others would never have to go through what they did.
Originally, they only intended to raise enough money for three defibrillators. However, 18 years later, they have now delivered 100 of the devices to sports clubs, schools, and more in the local area.
They also know of at least three instances where equipment they have donated has saved lives. This includes a four-year-old boy, and Wayne’s favourite teacher from when he was a pupil at the former Francis Coombe School.
Speaking to BUSHEYnews, John said: “I feel a sense of pride, and for us, it’s a sense of relief to think that somebody might be able to be helped by having the defib there.
“The journey over the years has been trying to get people to accept the importance of a defibrillator.”
Dave Swift, chairman of Bushey Rangers FC, added: “It’s an honour to have it. I took over the running of the club back in May, and we run a youth football club and an amateur boxing club here, so it’s absolutely fundamental to everyone’s safety.
“Being the 100th donation, it’s really special.”
To find out more about the charity, please search ‘Wayne’s Fund Charity’ on Facebook.
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