
The Merrimack Valley YMCA will be able to offer more CPR/AED certification classes, update CPR/AED training equipment, and increase the number of AED devices located in YMCA branches, thanks to the generous support of a local family. Pam and Tom Logan presented a check for more than $31,000 to Merrimack Valley Chief Operating Officer Frank Kenneally, Andover/North Andover YMCA Senior Executive Director Claudia Soo Hoo and Merrimack Valley YMCA Board of Directors Chairman Peter Lafond in a ceremony on April 25, 2019. The funds were the result of the Help Save One More Life fundraiser held by the Logans in honor of their daughter, Stacie Logan. Stacie went into cardiac arrest while working out at the Andover/North Andover YMCA this past fall, and quick-thinking staff members were able to use an AED device to keep her alive until an ambulance arrived. Stacie has since recovered and has returned to the Andover/North Andover Y to thank those who helped her that day. The Logan family were also in attendance when those staff members were named Community Heroes by the American Red Cross of Massachusetts.
The Logan family planned the Help Save One More Life fundraiser to show their appreciation for the YMCA staff and to raise awareness around CPR certification and the use of AEDs. A portion of the money was donated by the Wahlberg Foundation. In addition to the CPR/AED courses and equipment, the Merrimack Valley YMCA will use the funds donated to support teen leadership programs such as Youth and Government and YMCA175.