Having attended a First Aid refresher course recently Tina Circus was amazed to learn that even if CPR is carried out on a casualty in a public area there is only a 5% survival rate. However, if CPR is followed up within minutes with the use of a defibrillator, the survival rate increases to between 74-80%

Tina has therefore set herself a target for this year to raise sufficient funds to purchase a defibrillator, to be kept at Thomas Horton Solicitors in Bromsgrove, for emergency use by the local community. Tina's view is that if only one life is saved by having another defibrillator in Bromsgrove Town Centre, it will be worthwhile.

Tina has set a target for herself of running 750 km this year which is the equivalent of more than 3 half marathons per month. Tina ran an impressive 116 km in January 2020 and so far 68 km in February to go towards the target of 750 km for the year.

Tina's first organised run is the Stratford Upon Avon Half Marathon on the 26th April 2020.

For those of you who do not know Tina Circus, Tina is a solicitor/partner here at Thomas Horton Solicitors. A few years ago, on the 'wrong side' of 50, Tina decided to try her hand at running. After a 'slow' start Tina picked up the pace, competing in Triathlons, the Birmingham Half Marathon and even the Wolf Run. Now Tina wishes to use her passion for running to raise money to support the local community, and we think it is a great idea.

We would welcome any sponsorship for this project however small and Tina has promised to keep people updated as to her progress.

A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest. This high energy shock is called defibrillation, and it's an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who’s in cardiac arrest.

Who can use a defibrillator? You don’t need to be trained to use a defibrillator – anyone can use it. There are clear instructions on how to attach the defibrillator pads. It then assesses the heart rhythm and will only instruct you to deliver a shock if it’s needed. You cannot deliver a shock accidentally, the defibrillator will only allow you to shock if it is needed.

British Heart Foundation