Costa del Sol campaign equips locals with CPR and defibrillator skills in debut session

Gerry Hannam from Save A Life shared details of the group’s very first CPR and defibrillator training course, which took place on Saturday, April 18. Eleven participants gained hands-on experience under the guidance of Nic and Alex from Diving with Nic. Organiser Daniela Wenk received warm thanks for coordinating this vital community event in Calahonda.

Save A Life initiative grows from personal trauma

Cardiac arrest survivor Gerry Hannam and wife Jenny launched the campaign last summer after Gerry owed his own survival to a public defibrillator in the UK. Save A Life has since installed ten defibrillators across Mijas, Fuengirola and Alhaurin el Grande, with four units now sited in Calahonda itself. Security patrol cars carry extra devices marked by green heart stickers, while public maps help residents locate equipment quickly. Recent placements include a unit at a local school in memory of two-year-old Milas, whose family attended the inauguration alongside the Hannams and their daughter Charlotte.

Affordable courses prepare everyone for emergencies

Participants learned essential techniques, including basic anatomy of cardiac arrest, recognition of symptoms, and correct use of automated external defibrillators. Nic and Alex emphasised keeping patients alive until professional help arrives, drawing on real examples where quick action succeeded. Courses run for four hours and cost just €35 per person, half the normal rate,  thanks to sponsorship from Diving with Nic. Complimentary drinks and snacks from Finca Naundrup added to the welcoming atmosphere.

Community members encouraged to book now

Future sessions will follow regularly because anyone might face an emergency where these skills make the difference between life and death. Residents can join reduced-price courses with the team from Diving with Nic by contacting Save A Life directly. Gerry Hannam stresses that modern defibrillators talk users through every step and cannot cause harm or mistakes, removing any fear of legal issues when attempting to help. Sign up today and gain confidence that could prove life-savingly decisive one day.

Contact the Save a Life team via their Facebook account to get involved and be ready to Save a Life.