On the 28th April my son Ethan and some friends will be completing a sponsored walk around Shorne Country Park. Ethan is in EYFS at Cuxton Junior School and we are raising money to purchase 2 x LifeVac anti-choking devices for the school and also the nursery setting on site, Beehive and Buzz childcare. This is via The Oliver Steeper Foundation which was set up in memory of Oli.

What is the LifeVac anti-choking device

LifeVac is the only airway clearance device approved for use and regulated by the UK MHRA. They are manufactured to order in Barnstaple.

It is important to note that this doesn't replace first aid, and first aid should always be carried out as per protocol. At the point of a casualty becoming unconscious or when an ambulance is being called then the LifeVAC device can be accessed. With first aid only being 70% effective in a choking emergency as per the national figures, LifeVac has never yet failed to remove a blockage where first aid has failed or cannot be performed. The youngest it has been used on is 4 weeks old, and the eldest is 104. To date it has saved over 1830 lives worldwide, and 1130 of those lives are children!

If the device is ever used the company will replace it free of charge.

The cost of the device is £85 + Vat + £8 shipping.

We would welcome and appreciate any contribution you can give for this cause. Thank you! Hannah & Ethan xxx

Please see below more information about the device and also about The Oliver Steeper Foundation and their story. Lewis and Zoe Steeper of The Oliver Steeper Foundation have also kindly offered to provide staff at the settings free training following the purchase of the device.

https://www.oliversfoundation.org.uk/