Student Paramedic Unveils Defibrillator Honoring Friend

A defibrillator has been unveiled by a student paramedic, dedicated to the memory of her friend. Amy Shadbolt, 21, launched a campaign for more public defibrillators after her fellow student, Shane Davies, died in a road crash. The device, which has been placed near the crash scene on Henwick Road in Worcester, was financed by Mark King, founder of The Oliver King Foundation. Ms. Shadbolt expressed her gratitude, stating: “I’m so grateful for the support. It was really unexpected for me especially having someone from such a big foundation reach out.” She further commented on the device’s significance: “It will mean a lot to the community. It means a lot to family and friends of Shane but also in Worcester having more access to public defibrillators is really important.” The Oliver King Foundation was established in 2012 to honor Mr. King’s 12-year-old son, who experienced a cardiac arrest during a swimming race at a venue lacking a defibrillator. His death was attributed to Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome, a hidden heart condition. Ms. Shadbolt, a resident of Worcester, had previously accumulated over £900 with the aim of installing a defibrillator at the location where her friend died. She stated: “Losing my friend to a fatal road traffic collision, kick-started me raising awareness for getting public access to defibrillators.” She further elaborated: “I want to train people in CPR and how to use these life saving devices.” She continued: “I want to raise general awareness of how important defibrillators are and early interventions, particularly in cardiac arrests, but also provide education to the public about this important matter.”