Genealogy code: N X t.4
Dordrecht owes its comprehensive network of defibrillators to Robert and Heather Vreugdenhil, and to no one else. This was more than enough reason for the municipality to honor them with the Johan de Witt Medal, the highest municipal distinction in Dordrecht, for their seventeen years of dedication. Those first minutes after a cardiac arrest are crucial in maximizing the chances of survival. Hence, the decision of the Dordrecht resident to establish the Reanimatie Dordrecht Foundation with the aim of creating a comprehensive network of defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the city. Whenever a situation requiring resuscitation arises, a message is sent to individuals who have signed up, enabling them to quickly arrive on the scene and provide initial aid.
The foundation has had its own space on Vissersdijk-Beneden for years, complete with an office and training area. Since its establishment, the space has hosted numerous CPR training sessions, and from there, the number of AEDs has gradually expanded to the current total of 154.
Rik van der Linden, now a city councilor, completely surprised the Dordrecht couple last week by presenting them with the Johan de Witt Medal, the highest honor in Dordrecht. “We had just finished a training session for city council members in the council chamber, and then Rik walked in out of nowhere. I thought he was going to commend us for our work with the AEDs, which he did, but then he also brought out that medal,” Heather revealed.
Heather knew about it in advance; she was part of the plan, so she wasn’t initially surprised. That changed instantly when Van der Linden pulled out a medal for her as well. “Suddenly, I was involved, so I was completely taken aback. Of course, we do this together, but it truly originated from Robert.”Although there are enough AEDs, the couple is far from considering stopping. “There’s still much to be done.”