Temple Israel Teens Raise Funds to Save Hearts

Touched by the death of a young father at a local gym, teenagers at Westport’s Temple Israel are raising funds to purchase automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in an effort to create a safer community.

The teens have already raised more than $700 toward their $2100 goal and on Sunday plan a walk-a-thon to support their efforts.

The students thought they might be able to make a difference after hearing the story of a 42-year-old father of four small children who had died after a workout at a local gym.

Learning that his life might have been saved if a defibrillator had been available, the seventh graders decided to dedicate a yearlong tzedahak (charity) campaign to raise funds.

When they were told that a defibrillator might help save a life in any community where people gather, the students decided to purchase a machine for Temple Israel.

Seventh grade teacher Cindy Zuckerbrod has turned her students’ fund-raising project into a learning experience. After doing some research, she found a distributor in Norwalk who will provide the defibrillator at cost.

A company representative, who is also an EMT, has already visited the seventh graders and to share information about cardiac arrest and how the defibrillator they are working to purchase may help save a life.

When the fundraising project is complete, company representatives will return to Temple Israel to train staff on its use.

Students will gather with family and friends on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at 5 Marine Ave. in Westport to begin the almost five-mile walk.

The walk is open to the public and community members are encouraged to join students in their effort save a heart. For additional information or to make a contribution, contact Cindy Zuckerbrod at (203)221-8261 or at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).