Giving the gift of life this Christmas season

What was a near-tragic incident last December is now helping countless others just one year later. PJ Kellachan ’23 collapsed during a basketball practice, requiring CPR, resuscitation, and an AED (automated external defibrillator) to regain consciousness. In those critical moments, the heroic actions of the Chaminade trainers and coaching staff, who were all certified, recognized an AED mere 50 feet away from where PJ was unconscious and administered multiple cycles until they detected a pulse.

This past November, Mr. Pat Kellachan, PJ's father, used this experience as inspiration to run the TCS New York City Marathon and raise funds for AED units and AED training at Chaminade High School. Pat also had a larger goal to donate additional AEDs to schools in underserved communities - and more specifically to our local Catholic grammar schools in need.

He far exceeded his fundraising goals, raising over $50,000. With those funds, Chaminade is able to purchase all AEDs needed and provide additional staff training. Chaminade was also able to donate multiple AED units to The De La Salle School, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and St. Martin de Porres Marianist School. Representatives from each school visited campus on Tuesday, December 19, to meet Pat, PJ, and members of the administration to accept these life-saving devices for their schools. 

AEDs are required in all New York State schools and are to be prominently displayed and easily accessible. They are a proven life saver, with countless other stories of athletes and others who have had a similar experience as PJ. We are grateful for Mr. Kellachan and our Chaminade Family this Christmas season for giving the gift of life. Go Flyers!