The Stratford branch of St John Ambulance is $500 closer to a new defibrillator, thanks to members of Lodge Hinemoa No. 786.
Bruce Huckstep, right worshipful master of the Lodge, says the money comes from the benevolence fund, and that members agreed to give some money to St John.
Angus Nuko, the St John Stratford project co-ordinator in charge of raising funds for the machine, says they wrote a letter to the lodge members, explaining their need. "The defibrillator costs $8500 and is something we take with us to every event."
He adds that having access to a defibrillator can make all the difference. "The beauty of the machine is that anyone can use it, it is set up to tell you what to do, and you can't override the commands."
Stratford already has a few defibrillators, but one needs replacing, so the donation has come at the right time. "They told us the machine can't be serviced again as it will be too old, so we need to fundraise to replace it."
To find out more about joining Lodge Hinemoa No. 786, phone 06 765 6104.