OCONTO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Earlier this year, Marv Andree from Pound suffered a heart attack as he was driving in Oconto County.
Luckily, responding deputy Joe LeBreck had the only automated external defibrillator (AED) in the county in his squad and was able to save Andree’s life.
This prompted Andree and his wife Dawn to raise money to buy an AED for every patrol car in the county.
During a presentation at the Oconto County Sheriff’s Office Thursday, the couple announced more than $8,000 was raised through candy bar sales and donations to buy at least 6 AEDs.
LeBreck tells FOX 11 says the donation is extremely important.
“For the vast majority our area, our law enforcement is usually the first on scene of an emergency situation so to have this piece of equipment, life-saving equipment, in our squad cars now, will give deputies the chance to provide an advanced level of care to our citizens, whether they come through or live in our communities.”
The couple says it was family, friends, and support from the community that allowed their fundraising efforts to be so successful.
Andree says he will continue to raise money to buy more AEDs until every county squad car has them. To do that, the department will need an additional 14 AEDs.
The department was also able to get two special carriers for the AEDs so recreational deputies can bring them along when they patrol on boats, ATVs, and snowmobiles.
If you would like to donate to the cause, you can donate directly to the sheriff’s department, indicating it is for the AED fundraiser.
