Student Paramedics at the University of Worcester are gearing up for this year’s CPR Marathon; a non-stop, 24-hour cardiopulmonary resuscitation challenge aimed at raising vital funds for Heart Start Malvern and Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.
Beginning at 9am on March 16, students, staff and visitors will work in continuous rotation to maintain CPR on a training mannequin for a full 24 hours, finishing at 9am the following morning.
The endurance challenge aims not only to raise money for two local lifesaving charities, but also to shine a spotlight on the importance of early CPR in emergency situations.
The annual event has become a big fixture in the University’s calendar, and before this year’s event has even begun the students have raised £850. Proceeds will be split, with 60% going to Heartstart Malvern, and 40% going to Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.
Last year’s marathon even featured a surprise visit from Casualty actor Michael Stevenson, known for his role as paramedic Iain Dean in the long‑running BBC drama, who came to show his support and cheer on the students.
This year’s challenge is being organised by members of Parasoc, the University’s Paramedic Society, made up of students from the Paramedic Science programme. The society is for any student interested in paramedicine, healthcare, or simply learning how to save lives.
Dylan Stephenson, Chair of Parasoc, said: “We chose these charities because they both carry out incredibly important work within the community, and both have been supported by the Society for many years. We wanted to continue that tradition of support.”
“Raising awareness of CPR is extremely important,” Dylan added. “It’s a lifesaving skill that anyone can learn and use in an emergency, and when bystanders perform CPR, the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest increase significantly.”
The aim of Parasoc is to help students develop their knowledge and skills through development and skills days, while also giving a space for students to unwind and have fun away from their studies and placements.
Sarah Lee, Vice Chair and Administrator for the society, said: “The CPR marathon is very important to us as a society, as it provides both awareness and training for people who might never have come across this skill before.”
She added: “Being able to see this event grow from its first year to now, along with the involvement and impact we have, is so rewarding.”
To donate to the fundraising campaign, visit the GoFundMe page.
For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email [email protected]