Red Sneakers for Oakley Donates Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injectors and Training to Civic Center

The Peoria Civic Center has enhanced its medical preparedness thanks to a recent donation. On Wednesday, the center received a supply of epinephrine auto-injectors, crucial for treating severe allergic reactions. The presentation took place at 3PM within the civic center’s great hall, marking a significant step towards ensuring visitor safety during events held at the venue.

The generous contribution came from the Red Sneakers Peoria. Beyond simply providing the injectors, the donation package also included comprehensive food allergy training and certification for the medical staff employed by the Center. This ensures that staff members are not only equipped with the life-saving medication but also properly trained to recognize symptoms and administer it effectively when needed.

Lindsey Spangler, representing Red Sneakers Peoria, highlighted the critical need for such resources. She noted that approximately 33 million individuals in the United States suffer from severe food allergies. Spangler emphasized that epinephrine is the sole medication capable of reversing a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. She pointed out that factors like cost and insufficient education often prevent people from carrying their own epinephrine, making public access points like the Civic Center vital, especially since prompt treatment is essential during anaphylaxis.

Rik Edgar, the General Manager of the Peoria Civic Center, expressed profound gratitude for the donation. He stated that the center is proud to be recognized as one of the pioneering entertainment venues in the nation equipped with undesignated, or “stock,” epinephrine. Edgar specifically thanked Red Sneakers Peoria for their generosity and acknowledged the positive influence the organization has within the local community through initiatives like this.

The efforts of Red Sneakers Peoria are funded through community engagement and support. The organization raises the necessary funds to provide epinephrine auto-injectors primarily through its annual 5k run/walk event and an accompanying fall festival held each October. For those interested in learning more about the broader mission of Red Sneakers for Food Allergy Awareness, further information is available at redsneakers.org.

Here is a report from WMBD-TV on the presentation:

Red Sneakers for Oakley was founded by Merrill and Robert Debbs after they lost Oakley, their 11-year-old son, to anaphylaxis from exposure to tree nuts. You can read more about Oakley here. His memory lives on as the foundation established in his name works to save lives.

We at SnackSafely.com believe all venues of public accommodation must stock epinephrine devices for use in anaphylactic emergencies. Epinephrine is the only drug that can halt and reverse the progression of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction to a food, drug, insect venom or environmental substance.