For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Heather Logelin, 715-426-4503

River Falls Area Hospital Foundation launches LUCAS™ campaign
Funds raised will help purchase state-of-the-art CPR equipment

RIVER FALLS, Wisc. 12/10/2009--The River Falls Area Hospital Foundation is launching a new fundraising campaign to purchase a LUCAS™ Chest Compression System – the latest in life-saving cardiac technology – for the hospital's emergency department.

LUCAS™ is a cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) machine that does chest compression better than a human. Part plunger, part suction cup, the LUCAS device is placed around the chest of a patient and can perform 100 compressions per minute with a depth of 2 inches.

Community members will be contacted by mail and phone and will be invited to make a contribution to support the purchase of this state-of-the-art equipment.

"When it comes to heart attacks, quick treatment is crucial," explained Bob Gustafson, a local volunteer with the campaign. "The first sixty minutes are absolutely critical. That is why we are asking community members to join us by investing in a LUCAS device for our hospital."

Major trauma centers around the country have the LUCAS Chest Compression System. The newest development in cardiac emergency care, the LUCAS performs chest compressions far more efficiently and effectively than the most highly trained professionals. This is important because non-interrupted and steady chest compressions help keep oxygenated blood flowing consistently to vital organs like the heart and brain.

Perhaps just as important, the LUCAS frees caregivers' hands so they can perform other life-saving interventions. And the LUCAS is extremely portable, so it can be used not only in the hospital's emergency department, but also anywhere on the campus where there is a cardiac emergency.

Questions regarding the campaign can be directed to foundation director Heather Logelin at 715-426-4503 or heather.logelin@allina.com.

About the River Falls Area Hospital Foundation

The River Falls Area Hospital Foundation raises money for programs, services and equipment that the hospital might not otherwise be able to afford. All funds raised by the foundation support the River Falls Area Hospital, which in turn works to meet the health needs of the community. More information about the River Falls Area Hospital Foundation can be found online at www.riverfallsareahospital.com/rfahfoundation.