Cathy Fox
Published online March 25, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
CAMPBELL’S BAY – On Monday, March 9, two medical students from McGill University’s Gatineau campus visited the HUB in Shawville and the Campbell’s Bay Golden Age Club to provide CPR training, primarily for seniors. The session focused on recognizing symptoms, how to respond and tips for preventing cardiovascular disease.
Olivia Iorio and Evan Puligandla are representatives of a student initiative called MEDCCO (Médecins pour le cœur Campus Outaouais), which has served the Gatineau area for four years and has trained more than 2,000 participants. Attendees are encouraged to share what they have learned with others.
Around 20 participants at each location watched a slide presentation outlining the most common types of cardiovascular conditions, followed by a real-life scenario demonstrated on a dummy using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The device provides step-by-step instructions, as does a 911 operator if support is needed while staying on the line using speakerphone.
Participants were taught to perform chest compressions with straight arms, leaning over the sternum. Compressions should only be stopped when another person takes over, when directed by the AED or if the helper is unable to continue. In that case, resting is recommended rather than risking becoming another victim.
The session also provided a clearer understanding of the Good Samaritan law, which protects bystanders who step in to help. It states that anyone who assists is not liable for injuries sustained by the victim and does not need formal first aid training to intervene.
There is no longer a requirement to provide rescue breaths between 30 compressions, as this may pose a risk to the helper if no mask or filter is available.
The team also demonstrated how to respond to choking using the Heimlich manoeuvre, with variations for toddlers, adults and infants.
This training is especially relevant as rates of death from cardiovascular disease continue to rise. Presenters emphasized that dietary changes and other recommendations should be approached in a supportive, rather than self-critical, way to maintain quality of life.
Connexions representative Shelley Heaphy said she hopes to bring this free training to more communities next year.
Photo – Presenters Evan Puligandla, kneeling, and Olivia Iorio, standing, from MEDCCO, a medical student initiative at McGill University’s Outaouais campus, provide free CPR training at the Campbell’s Bay Golden Age Club. (CF)
