Jenelle Splinter saved the life of Charlotte Chudej thanks to quick thinking and an available Automated External Defibrillator.
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“I kept telling her come on Char, you can do this you can do this you know and hoping that maybe she can hear me.”
Splinter never thought she would have to use the AED at the Plover VFW bar and restaurant. When she started working at the bar, she asked why there was no AED on site. As a nursing student, she knew how important they can be in life-threatening situations.
“Every building should have an AED,” she said.
After doing some research, Splinter got one donated by the local authorities. Little did she know it would mean the difference between life and death for one VFW regular.
Char Chudej suffered a heart attack during the VFW’s annual Christmas party in December. Splinter was working that night, and jumped to action when Chudej lost consciousness. With the help of several others in the restaurant, including a volunteer firefighter, Splinter gave Chudej CPR.
Using the AED on site, Splinter was able to follow directions and give Chudej the correct care.
Stevens Point Firefighter Jb Moody said that’s exactly why AEDs are important life-saving tools.
“They are very easy to use. Somebody with no medical knowledge still can use them.”
Chudej survived, and Splinter couldn’t be happier.
Although AED’s cost around 1,000 dollars, Splinter says that’s a small price to pay to potentially save someone’s life. “Totally worth the money for a life, even if it’s just one life,” she said.
