Nearly one hundred local people joined forces over the Easter weekend to raise money for life saving equipment to be placed in bars and restaurants at La Fuente Centre. The money was raised through two 5k walks – one Friday and one on Saturday – and a bottomless brunch at Evolution.
The hard work has seen the campaign get off to a flying start with enough funds raised to buy two defibrillators, 10 epi-pens and to restock first aid boxes. Further funds were raised yesterday through a grand pariz raffle at Evolution after an afternoon of ‘Qunigo’.
The events began at Ryan’s Sports Bar La Fuente Centre, where those taking part met to register and grab a pre-walk coffee or tea. In-line with current restrictions groups or 4 people set off every five minutes to ensure social distancing. Each entrant paid 20e to take part and returned to Evolution Bar where a fabulous brunch with unlimited Cava or beer was available.
The initiative was launched on facebook group ‘The Irish Community in Orihuela Costa’ and has been spearheaded by Audrey 0’Gorman. It is hoped that now the first targets have been met that the campaign will continue and help other locations or urbanisations to raise money for defibrillators of their own.
Audrey said: “The response has been amazing. Both walks were full to capacity and we have hit our target. A big thank you goes to everyone who took part or donated to the campaign, also to Ryan’s Bar and Evolution for their help and support.”
Audrey has worked closely with Derek and Leigh Adamson from Ex Pat Homecare, who will help us source the life-saving machines and provide the necessary training.