ISP Putnamville solicits help from area runners, walkers

PUTNAMVILLE — The Putnamville District of the Indiana State Police is soliciting help from local runners and walkers to raise money for an organization known in Indiana as “Bolt for the Heart.”

The organization will then utilize all monies raised and in turn, purchase AEDs for troopers patrolling our roadways. AEDs or Automated External Defibrillators are a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses a life-threatening cardiac episode and will treat the victim through defibrillation (application of electrical therapy) and re-establish an effective rhythm of the heart. Many lives in Indiana and around the country have been saved using this device.

Bolt for the Heart has already donated 70 AEDs to the Indiana State Police with a commitment to equip every ISP road patrol vehicle with an AED.

“We, as a department, have been blessed by the caring generosity of the Bolt for the Heart organization and their stated goal of ensuring each and every state police road patrol commission is equipped with an AED,” Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter said. “Now, with the Virtual Run, we have the opportunity to show our gratitude by encouraging friends, family, co-workers and other Public Safety professionals in our communities to commit to participating in the 2016 BFTH 5K walk/run anytime during the month of November and December.”

This is how runners and walkers can help. Continuing through the end of December, participants can complete a virtual 5K (3.1 miles) run or walk on their own time and at any location. Again, time and locations are of your choosing, such as your home, your gym facility or one of the many public parks or trails in the Wabash Valley and at any time you wish.

Simply visit the Bolt for the Heart website at http://boltfortheheart.com/events/virtual-race-5k/ and sign up. The $20 entry fee will include a 2016 custom finisher medal and commemorative race bib. Once you complete your 5K run or walk, you can send your finishing time and a photo or two using the hashtag #LetsBolt on your social media posts.

As part of the entry process, the link will ask you what county you reside, thus allowing your entry fee monies to purchase AEDs for troopers in your area.

The ISP Putnamville District challenges running clubs, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and fire/EMS agencies to participate.

“All of us have a loved one or someone we care about who has or is at risk of heart disease or a heart attack. This device could make the difference between life or death for that person,” commented Lt. Dan Jones, commander of the Putnamville District.

“On a personal level,” he added, “10 days ago my younger brother underwent emergency open-heart surgery after having a heart-related episode on our family farm. My family and I fully understand the importance of this life saving device and we hope to have a great turnout for this virtual 5k run/walk. My family and many of our district troopers and their families will be participating. We hope that you will help us help you.”