Atlantic Health System donates AED to Millburn High School

MILLBURN , NJ - Atlantic Health System, an integrated health care delivery system, recently donated an automatic external defibrillator (AED) to Millburn High School to ensure healthier communities and safer schools.

“Having accessible AEDs is of the utmost importance, especially in the world of athletics,” said Frank Bifulco, director of athletics and supervisor of health and physical education at Millburn High School. “We are beyond grateful for this donation.”

“We have a large campus and when we are in full force athletically, we have more than 300 athletes on the fields, courts and track,” Bifulco explained. “Having accessible AEDs in all locations is our goal, so with the addition of this AED, we are one step closer to having an AED at every one of our outdoor locations.”

The donation was part of Project Heartbeat, a campaign developed to provide communities with AEDs — portable devices that instruct users to deliver an electric shock to get a heart beating normally after a cardiac event. The program also offers training in the use of the devices as well as CPR if needed.

“With more AEDs available to the public, it’s important for people to not be intimidated by them, but know how and when to use them, as immediate action may save a life,” said Matthew Martinez, MD, medical director of sports cardiology at Atlantic Health System. “Project Heartbeat will help advance Atlantic Health System’s vision to save and improve lives and empower communities through health, hope and healing.”

Pictured from left to right: Maureen Boulanger, senior manager of marketing for Atlantic Health System, Milburn High School nurse Leora Wiener, Frank Bifulco, and Brendan Smith of Atlantic Health System’s marketing team. Mr. Bifulco is seen holding the new AED.