Courtesy Photo Members of Zonta, Z Club, City of Alpena Fire Department, and Alpena High School Athletics pose with the donated units in the attached photo.

ALPENA — Members of Zonta Club of Alpena Tri-County Area became aware of the story of a student-athlete in another community that had passed away during competition. The story described that the student’s life may have been saved had an AED been available at the time of the event.

AED stands for automated external defibrillator which is a portable, life-saving device designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. They brought the concern to their service and fundraising committee for consideration. With the support of their full chapter, they began to work to raise funds for two AED units. They ran parallel fundraisers with the Alpena High School Z Club, a student-led club sponsored by Zonta. Members reached out to Alpena High School officials about making a donation of two mobile units that could be used at outdoor athletic events.

For information on Zonta and their efforts, contact Ann Weir at annlweir@outlook.com or 989-464-0668.