Have you ever wondered what it’s like to save a life?

Our volunteers at St John Ambulance SA know firsthand. Their quick response saved Des, and with your support, we can continue helping our community.

In July 2024, at Ceduna’s Dirt Circuit Club, our community faced a moment we all dread. Des was racing when he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, becoming unresponsive in his car. In this critical situation, every minute mattered.

Thankfully, two of our St John Ambulance SA volunteers, Amber and Kelly, were providing health and medical services at the event. They immediately responded to the incident, along with two off-duty nurses and an off-duty paramedic who were coincidentally nearby. As a team, they quickly assessed Des’ condition.

Thanks to Amber and Kelly’s extensive training, they knew exactly what to do. They started cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) straight away and applied an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). They restarted Des’s heart.

This moment reminds us of the importance of preparation and the strength of community. The fast response and heroic efforts of our valued volunteers, Amber and Kelly, were celebrated by our community, earning them a ‘Save a Life Award’ at the 2024 St John Ambulance SA Awards Day.

What happened next created a full-circle moment. During our 2024 St John Ambulance Drive-a-thon, our volunteers visited regional communities, to deliver public access AEDs and provide free CPR training. During preparations for the trip, we found out about the Ceduna Dirt Circuit Club's urgent plea for a public access AED after Des's incident.

The unexpected connection showed how important our work is. Thanks to supporters like you, we were able to help. In October 2024, we proudly provided a free public access AED to the Ceduna Dirt Circuit Club. Now, this device stands silently ready, prepared to deliver critical assistance, should the need arise.

Imagine the relief and gratitude of knowing that your loved one has been given a second chance at life. But for many families, that peace of mind is still out of reach. They are waiting for the resources that could make all the difference. Together, we can change that. 

Because of people like you, we can train more volunteers. Because of people like you, we can provide essential first aid supplies. Because of people like you, we can install more public access AEDs in communities. Because of people like you, lives can be saved. 

Please support us today and help us ensure that more people have a second chance when seconds count. Together, we can create a safer, more prepared community. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to saving another life. 

On behalf of everyone at St John Ambulance SA, thank you. We’re so grateful to have you as part of our community.

If you would like to deepen your connection with us, we would love to hear from you. Our Fundraising Team understands that everyone’s circumstances and preferences are different, and we will take the time to understand what matters most to you. Whether you’re inspired to help an individual or community, or explore opportunities, we'll work with you to find the perfect way for your generosity to make a difference. 

Please email us at fundraising@stjohnsa.com.au or call us on 08 8306 6918 to chat with our Fundraising team.