For 3 weekends in November, 13 resident Drumbladers worked hard to pass their First Aid courses. A total of 11 people completed Levels 1, 2 & 3; 2 people completed up to Level 2 and will do their Level 3 in February. One further member will do his Levels 1, 2 and 3 early in 2010. We all had loads of fun during the learning, which was conducted by a company called Pulse Point. There was a balance between theory and the practicals and whilst there was a lot to learn, it was presented in such a way, that the learning was interesting, fun and manageable. Everyone was pretty nervous about the testing, but in the end, we all got through with good marks. What is important to note here, is that the course was customised over and above what all 3 levels usually entail - to include specific potential situations in Drumblade, e.g. gunshot and knife wounds, blunt trauma injuries, and injuries that may occur as a result of falling off quad bikes, or horses. This was a special request by the DCW when organising the course as we want to ensure that we are able to deal with any situation in Drumblade that may arise. A further small group will undergo more intensive training early in the new year to make us even more effective in the community. So, our community is even stronger in the self-sufficient stakes, as we now have our own First Aid Response Team. We will be having regular role playing days to ensure that all our skills remain intact, and to reinforce our training so that we are always ready for any emergency. Huge thanks to all who participated, as well as the DCW who sponsored 50% of our training; to Barry for the use of his farm; and to Maria for all her hard work in making the arrangements, organising the catering, etc. Congratulations to all the First Aiders (alphabetical order) : Barry Baars; Maria da Silva; Dalene Dumont; Lisa Hill; Kerri Lee Hill; Samantha Houniet; Issy Lichtenstein; Jeremy Lichtenstein; Terry McMurray; Sherize Smit; Helen Taylor; Anika Visser; Este Visser.
