BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Whatcom County Sheriff’s deputies are better equipped to save lives thanks to a Bellingham man’s generous donation.
Byron Sprague has given the department 65 automated external defibrillators that can save the life of a person suffering cardiac arrest.
He made the donation in memory of his father Al Sprague and to give back to the community.
He says about 400,000 Americans suffer a cardiac event outside of a hospital each year, and quick treatment with a defibrillator can be the difference between life and death.
Sheriff’s Sergeant Magnus Gervol says they’re excited to have this equipment on hand.
Sheriff Bill Elfo says his deputies are often on the scene of emergencies before medical crews arrive and he’s grateful to Byron for providing these life saving devices.