Lincolnshire Football Association have provided funding for MP99, set up in memory of Michael Palmer, for the purchase of two mobile defibrillators that can be taken pitch side. 

On Saturday 25th February, Michael Palmer (23) tragically collapsed and lost his life following a cardiac arrest while playing for Crowland Town Reserves FC in a match against Leverington Town Reserves FC. Attempts were made to save Michael, but he sadly never regained consciousness.

Michael’s family set up a Crowdfunding page to purchase mobile defibrillators for local football teams that can be taken pitch side. Having set an initial target of £2,000 to purchase two defibrillators, the appeal has so far outstandingly raised over £14,000.

In partnership with ‘London Hearts,’ MP99 have recently delivered defibrillators to Crowland, Tydd, Sutton Bridge, Holbeach Bank, Orton Rangers, PBC Swimming Club and Leverington.

Lincolnshire FA have provided funding for the purchase of two mobile defibs. This funding, along with an ongoing funding campaign and commitment to provide as many defibs as possible, will provide defibs to be donated and deployed to clubs across the county.

MP99 is actively seeking applications from clubs who wish to receive a portable defib.

Mike Palmer, Father of Michael and Founder of MP99, said: “Since Michael’s passing, Lincolnshire FA have been a tremendous support to me and the family, as well as supporting the defibrillator campaign to get these devices pitch side. The support we have had from Lincs FA, and Nick Hanson in particular, has been incredible and I am proud of what MP99 and Lincolnshire FA, alongside our partners and supporters have achieved.

There is a finite window of opportunity to save a person’s life when their heart stops, a window that was exceeded in Michael’s case, but should not have been. As a football club you will have players, supporters, and volunteers, of all ages attending matches and events. No one knows when a device will be needed, it could be anyone, including you, that needs the attention and in under 5 minutes. With a defibrillator pitch side, those precious minutes make all the difference, and they may have done for Michael. Do not let our story become your story, or your families.”

To apply for a mobile defibrillator from MP99, clubs can email enquiries@mp99.org.uk where they will need to sign up to the £10 per month subscription to cover batteries and pads that keeps the defibrillators maintained and ready for use at all times. 

To donate to the fundraiser in memory of Michael Palmer, please click below and donate what you can for this inspirational and life-changing cause: 
Donate here 

Nick Hanson, CEO of Lincolnshire FA, said: "The passing of Michael touched the entire football community in Lincolnshire, and we are committed to supporting the MP99 campaign and Mike and his family. MP99 aims to provide as many portable defibs as possible to ensure where possible no other family experience losing a loved one playing or watching the game we all love."

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