Cardiac Arrest Survivor Gives Back To The Community

After experiencing cardiac arrest during a 5k race last year, Scott Prell received emergency medical treatment that saved his life—and now he wants to help others. Prell said, “we had the idea that we wanted to do something for the community so my wife and I, and friends and family, we did a little campaign and accepted donations and we were able to raise enough money to get six AED and three cabinets for the AEDs.”

Today, he was able to give one of those AEDs to the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena, where it will service children and staff. Catherine Knoch, Boys and Girls Club director of operations said, “It really means a lifesaving opportunity for our staff and for our youth.” Andy Marceau, Alpena City Fire Department community risk reduction captain, was also excited about the impact and said, “We couldn’t think of a better place. To top it off, this gentleman, Scott Prell used to come here, to the old Boys and Girls Club, with his brother, and we have more to donate as well.” He hopes to add an AED to the Culligan Plaza project next year.

Prell and the fire department have already inspired a wave of change, opening up the door for training CPR, AED usage, and emergency response protocols. These steps can save lives considering a quick response is vital to treating cardiac emergencies. “Just please help, if you’re out in the community and you see somebody in need, CPR or they’re not feeling well, give a lending hand,” said Marceau. “You are covered under the Good Samaritan Law.” If you are interested in donating to put more AEDs and cases for them in the community, you can contact the Alpena City Fire Department.