Keiran's Legacy saves man's life
The 16 year old's family donated a defibrillator to police in his memory
Last updated 21st Apr 2017
A man's life has been saved - thanks to a donation from a North East couple who lost their son in a crash.
A defibrillator was used on a 52-year-old man found slumped at the wheel of his car after suffering cardiac arrest near St Fergus earlier this month.
The machine was one of those bought through the fundraising of Sandra and Gordon McKandie, after their 16 year old boy Keiran died in an accident a year ago.
Sandra McKandie said: "As a result of these defibrillators being available in emergency response vehicles, a gentleman's life has been saved, which has allowed a family not to experience the heartbreak, sorrow and suffering that we endure on a daily basis.
"This is due to one person alone and that is Keiran. If Keiran did not experience such a cruel and unjustified accident these defibrillators would not be available for Police to use in these emergency situations. We genuinely wish the gentleman involved a safe and speedy recovery and hope that he continues to fulfil his life.
"We will continue to fundraise and raise awareness in Keiran's name to ensure that all emergency response vehicles are equipped with this life saving equipment, and continue Keiran's Legacy.
Deputy Chief Constable, Rose Fitzpatrick, Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest Strategic Lead, said: "It is extremely pleasing to hear that one of the defibrillators donated by Gordon and Sandra McKandie has been used to help save this man’s life. I hope that they can take some comfort from knowing that their very kind and generous donation has undoubtedly played a significant part in the man’s chances of survival and I hope he will recover well.
“It is remarkable to think that within 2 months of the AEDs being installed in road policing vehicles across the North East that we are already seeing such a positive impact.
"Police Scotland will continue to increase the number of officers trained to provide advanced AED training in support of our emergency services colleagues across the Grampian region to enhance out-of-hospital cardiac arrest care provision."