The Linda E. Anderson Award is an award to recognize employers that make an AED and training available to their employees. It’s a beautiful glass heart that is awarded in the name of Linda Anderson, who died after suffering sudden cardiac arrest at work.

Linda’s Story

In February of 2002 a group of coworkers were taking a walk at lunchtime when one of them, Linda Anderson, felt faint and collapsed to the ground.
Linda’s co-workers had no idea what was wrong but knew she was in trouble.

One co-worker ran back to their office, called 911 and drove back to wait for help. They waited and waited and waited until finally the county sheriff arrived and shortly after that fire department and ambulance.

Even though we have the best emergency services available anywhere what could go wrong did go wrong. There was a police officer at Jenison High School less than 2 miles away, but had trouble finding “Old Chicago Drive” which cost valuable minutes. While there is a fire department less than a block away, they were an all volunteer force which also cost valuable minutes. Her co-workers didn’t recognize what was wrong and weren’t trained even if they had.

When emergency services did arrive, and they were able to get her heart back in rhythm, too much time had passed to prevent brain damage and she died two months later, leaving behind her husband and her daughter.

Linda was an incredible person. She is missed dearly by everyone who knew her.

Making a Difference

So far we have given out 10 awards covering 1600 employees with over 32 AED’s.

Awarded Companies include:

– Kent District Library

– Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan

– Van’s DeliverySharon Conklin

– Weller Truck