Community Medical Clinic gets lifesaving equipment donation
September 16, 2024
American Heart Association and Molina Healthcare of South Carolina donate AED on September 16
In an effort to educate and inspire a Nation of Lifesavers, the American Heart Association and Molina Healthcare of South Carolina donated an AED (automated external defibrillator) to the Community Medical Clinic of Kershaw County on Monday, September 16, at 110 C. East Dekalb Street in Camden, S.C.
Kai Kroeger, current University of South Carolina Gamecocks punter, and Connor Shaw, former University of South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback, presented the AED. Following the donation, the American Heart Association hosted hands-only CPR demonstrations for area residents and patients of the clinic.
“We are deeply grateful to the American Heart Association for their efforts in securing a grant for the Community Medical Clinic to receive an AED. The AED provides a life-saving tool that increases heart attack survival. The powerful story of Damar Hamlin’s (Buffalo Bills) collapse brought great attention to the benefits of AEDs in a cardiac emergency. Every moment is critical in these situations and that inspired us to reach out to the American Heart Association about providing AEDs to free medical clinics in South Carolina,” said Charlotte Rankin, CEO of Community Medical Clinic.
This donation is made possible by the ‘Kickstart Your Heart’ initiative, a project between Kai Kroeger, Molina Healthcare of South Carolina and the American Heart Association, to have AEDs donated for every kick return within the 15-yard line from the 2023-2024 college football season.
“As an athlete watching the events around Damar Hamlin’s collapse, I am reminded how important it is for AEDs to be easily accessible in the case of an emergency. I am honored to be able to leverage my talent in a way that will positively impact the Midlands,” said Kai Kroeger.
Three AED’s will be donated this fall in the Midlands, including the Good Samaritan Clinic and a Boys and Girls Club location.
“Having the AED in the clinic means having the ability to react fast should a patient, guest or co-worker suffer a cardiac arrest and strengthens our ability to serve and protect our community should the need arise,” said Rankin.
“Molina Healthcare of South Carolina is excited to be a part of this initiative. We are committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve, and this is one way we can ensure the residents in the Midlands have access to lifesaving equipment in case of a cardiac emergency,” said Allen Tipping, growth & community engagement manager with Molina Healthcare of South Carolina.
To learn more about local American Heart Association events and initiatives, visit South Carolina | American Heart Association.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About CMC
Established in 1998, CMC is a community leader in providing healthcare resources and preventative care to the uninsured and underserved in Kershaw County. They provide primary care to patients at no cost while leading a collaborative effort to empower individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. Learn more at http://www.cmcofkc.org.
In addition, there are available resources for ALL Kershaw County residents through the Access Kershaw initiative, and the LiveWell Kershaw (LWK) Coalition strives to improve the quality of life for Kershaw County. Whether by facilitating an action plan to evaluate and review county-wide health assessments, by developing a health improvement plan or by fostering collaboration and action with public and private sector organizations and schools to address community health issues, the LWK gives opportunities for those seeking to improve population health.
