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‘Virtual 5K’ to put life-saving equipment in ISP cars

HAMILTON COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) – A local organization is setting an ambitious goal of outfitting every Indiana State Police Car with an automated external defibrillator.

The biggest fundraiser for Bolt for the Heart is their annual 5k race held Thanksgiving morning.

This year they’re allowing runners to run “virtually” by signing up and running the race before or after Thanksgiving Day.

One family that will be running are the Rhoads. Their 13-year-old son was revived with an AED on May 22, 2016 at Grand Park.

“It’s the most humbling of times I guess is the way to describe it,” said Laura Rhoad, whose son, Danny, collapsed on the baseball field after being hit in the chest with a ball. “You’re supposed to be able to help your kids. I felt helpless and basically turned to prayer and to rely on other people.

Danny’s story is now helping Bolt for the Heart attain their goal of equipping all 350 state police with AED’s

“We decided last year to donate our proceeds from last year’s race and the same for this year and the same for next year, until we get all 350 cars outfitted,” said Pierre Twer, the founder of Bolt for the Heart.

“That equipment is absolutely crucial when seconds count,” said state police Sgt. John Perrine.

He said on three different times he administered CPR while responding to calls. All of them were unsuccessful.

“And that’s something very difficult, something we don’t forget. And so having this equipment and the capabilities to more effectively respond to these emergencies and potentially save lives is absolutely critical,” said Sgt. Perrine.

To sign up for the Bolt for the Heart 5k click here.