THE parents of a four-year-old girl who miraculously survived cardiac arrest are on a mission to get potentially life-saving defibrillators in all schools.

Chris and Ruth Helm are supporting the cardiac charity SADS UK’s Big Shock Campaign to make defibrillators compulsory in schools as they understand how valuable the equipment is in saving lives.

The couple have already donated to three schools in the Cheshire area.

A defibrillator is the only piece of equipment that will restore the heart rhythm.

If a person goes into cardiac arrest it is crucial that the defibrillator is used as quickly as possible to restore the heart rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac death.

Anne Jolly, founder of SADS UK, the Ashley Jolly SAD Trust, said: “Chris and Ruth Helm raised a lot of awareness in their community, letting people know that cardiac arrest can affect all ages.

“Through their generosity three schools in their area now benefit from having a defibrillator, along with lifesaving training on school premises.

“If CPR is used it gives a person a five per cent chance of survival, but coupled with using the defibrillator it increases the chance of survival to more than 50 per cent.

“This is why SADS UK is so passionate about putting this lifesaving equipment in place.”

For more information ring Anne Jolly on 01277 811215, email info@sadsuk.org or visit sadsuk.org.