Gift of the Givers Foundation donated CSIR Lung Inspiratory Flow Enabler (L.I.F.E.) devices to the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service (AMS). These lifesaving medical devices are able to support patients in respiratory distress and add to the patient life support options currently available on the AMS rotor and fixed-wing air ambulance platforms.
The devices are used to generate Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) to support the airways of spontaneously breathing patients, throughout the breathing cycle. The AMS has started with evaluation for optimal use and commenced flight paramedic training on the device.
“The AMS is grateful to Brimstone Investment Corporation Limited for facilitating the donation to our organisation to ensure that our patients receive the necessary care required to transport them to definitive care,” said Dr Philip Erasmus AMS CEO.
Both the AMS and Gift of the Givers are beneficiaries of Brimstone Empowerment Share Trust (BEST) which aims to create a more sustainable model of support to organisations by awarding them with Brimstone shares.
“These CPAP machines, a product of South African technology, have captured the imagination of doctors, nurses, paramedics and ambulance personnel nationwide. Simple to use, not requiring electricity they can deliver oxygen at low flow or intermediate flow and the positive pressure quite often achieves adequate saturation at low flow thereby conserving oxygen. The overriding comment we receiving is this machine is saving lives,” Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Chairman and Founder of Gift of the Givers.
“It is only through partnerships such as these that we are able to make a difference in the quality of life of our citizens. Thank you for your support and commitment to assist our organisation facilitate access to healthcare to those rendered most vulnerable.” concluded Erasmus.
Picture/s: Supplied