Lifesaving Defibrillator Installed At Ryde Marina Thanks To Generous Donation

A brand-new defibrillator has been installed at Ryde Marina, ensuring 24/7 access to vital emergency care for the local community and visitors.

The life-saving equipment was made possible through the generosity of berth holder Kevin Goddard, who has personally funded half of the cost, with the remaining amount kindly donated by IOW Defibrillators.

The device has been installed completely free of charge, with IOW Defibrillators not only contributing financially but also handling the installation and committing to its ongoing maintenance.

To maximize accessibility in an emergency, the defibrillator is housed in an unlocked box, allowing anyone to use it immediately should the need arise.

Kevin Goddard, a berth holder at Ryde Marina, understands first-hand the importance of quick medical intervention.

At the age of 56, Kevin has spent decades facing "uncertainty and worry" following a shocking hepatitis C diagnosis in his 20s.

He was among the 5,000 individuals with haemophilia and a total of 30,000 people across the UK who were tragically exposed to contaminated blood products between the 1970s and early 1990s.

Ryde Town Mayor, Richard May, said:

"I'd like to thank Kevin for his generosity and for supporting community safety in this way.

"None of us know when we might need emergency help and it's hugely reassuring to have a growing network of accessible defibrillators.

"My thanks to IOW Defibrillators for their work to install and maintain this vital equipment."

Ryde Town Council would like to express our deepest gratitude to Kevin for his generosity and commitment to the safety of the Ryde Marina community.

His selfless act ensures that vital medical assistance is readily available to those who may need it, reinforcing the importance of accessible public defibrillators.