Kneuers ask for defibrillator for Golden Anniversary

For a 50th wedding anniversary, one generally likes to receive flowers and chocolates, a special piece of gold jewelry, or even a trip to a romantic destination. But Kenneth and Jane Kneuer decided that for their 50th, they wanted an electronic defibrillator. To be precise, they wanted the life-saving device for Laconia High School, where she is a alum.

Approaching their matrimonial milestone, the Kneuers asked friends and family members to hold off on gifts, and instead donate to a fund to buy a defibrillator. Well, that fund grew that they could easily afford the defibrillator of their choice as well as three uniforms for the marching band.

Why a defibrillator? Speaking last night before the School Board, Kenneth said that he and his wife have had their share of health concerns. He, as a career firefighter, had sustained an injury on the job, and Jane is a cancer survivor, having undergone no fewer than 19 operations. Yet, Kenneth stated, "she looks the same as the day I married her."

"We hope it never has to be used," Jane said.

Kenneth added, jokingly, "If you don't use it, you can return it."

This defibrillator — a device which uses electricity to restart a heart — will be the second one in the school. Scott Davis, director of the Huot Technical Center, said each of the school's coaches has been trained on CPR as well as on the use of a defibrillator. The school's first device is located at the main entrance to the school, and the new one will be located near the gymnasium entrance.

Davis said that in instances where a person suffering a cardiac emergency is administered CPR alone, the chances for survival are around one in ten. If a defibrillator is used in conjunction with CPR, the chance of survival rises to 60 to 70-percent.

School board member Mike Seymour noted that the board is looking to put the life-saving devices in each of its schools, and has only Pleasant Street and Elm Street elementary schools left to go. The board is considering adding funds to its budget request this year, and preliminary figures look like the defibrillators will cost about $1,200 each, plus mounting expenses.

The next meeting of the Laconia School Board is scheduled for October 16.