Last week, an all-weather, climate controlled outdoor automated external defibrillator (AED) enclosure was installed in Koons Park in memory of 10-year old Bryson Funk. Donated by The Aliver Foundation, along with the automated external AED inside, this lifesaving equipment will empower bystanders to intervene 24/7/365 in the event of a cardiac emergency.
From the second we heard Bryson’s story, there was no question that this would be our next partner community. How could we not donate lifesaving equipment to protect those who utilize Koons Park in this incredible little boy’s memory?
The enclosure was setup in collaboration with Lower Paxton Township, Lower Paxton Township Bureau of Fire, Lower Paxton Township Bureau of Police, South Central EMS, and Dauphin County’s Office of Emergency Communications. A bystander calls 9-1-1, a code is provided to gain access the AED, and emergency services are simultaneously dispatched to Koons Park. While the AED will talk the user through the entire process, the 9-1-1 dispatcher will also assist them.
This is perhaps the most heartfelt donation we have made to date. The hope is that nobody will ever need to use this equipment, but knowing it is protecting lives outside in Koons Park and always accessible, no matter the weather, is so important.
Please stay tuned and save the date for the family friendly community celebration to be held on Saturday, April 18th in Koons Park, in conjunction with Linglestown Baseball Association’s opening day. Additionally, please visit: facebook.com/BrysonFunkRun to participate in the Funk Run, taking place on October 19th in Bryson’s memory.
About Bryson Funk:
Bryson was born in Harrisburg and attended Linglestown Elementary School. He was member of Linglestown Baseball Association and 717 Athletics. Bryson was a fun loving kid who enjoyed going to Hershey Park, landscaping, and playing sports in the front yard with parents and neighborhood friends. He was a bright student who excelled in school. Bryson volunteered a portion of his recess weekly to help in the MDS classroom as a peer buddy, working with students with special needs.
Lower Paxton TownshipLower Paxton Township Bureau of PoliceLower Paxton ParksLower Paxton Township Bureau of FireSouth Central Emergency Medical Services, Inc.Linglestown Baseball AssociationDauphin County, PA
