My Papa was enjoying his weekly round of golf in Markham, Ontario, when he went into a sudden cardiac arrest. Tragically, there was no immediate medical assistance or AED available on the course, and the delay in emergency response cost him his life. I firmly believe that if an AED had been accessible nearby, his life might have been saved. Although we cannot change the events of the past, this is the right time to change the future for other golfers. 

Golf is one of the most popular recreational sports in Canada, with millions of rounds played each year. While often seen as low-risk, golf courses present a unique set of challenges. The average age of golfers is 50+, which is also the demographic who are more vulnerable to cardiac events. Golf involves physical exertion, walking long distances, and sometimes exposure to high temperatures - all of which increase health risks. Many courses are in rural or semi-remote locations where ambulance access can be delayed. 

Sudden cardiac arrest has a survival rate of less than 10% without immediate defibrillation, but that rate jumps to 60-70% when an AED is used within the first 3-5 minutes. Many preventable tragedies could be avoided with better access to this life-saving equipment. AEDs are easy to use, affordable, and require minimal training. They can be placed in clubhouses, pro shops, starter huts, or even carried on beverage carts or marshal carts for rapid response.

Mandating AEDs at golf courses would not only increase the chances of survival for those experiencing SCA but also create a safer environment for all players and course staff. The cost of implementing this measure is a small price to pay when human lives are at risk. Golf courses already invest significantly in their facilities - adding AEDs is a crucial step toward ensuring the health and safety of every golfer. We've normalized AEDs in schools, arenas, airports, and fitness facilities because we value the lives and act accordingly. Golf courses should be no exception.

Join me in urging golf course owners and relevant authorities to prioritize the safety of their patrons by installing AEDs. It's time to make golf courses safe for everyone. Please sign this petition to require AEDs on all golf courses in Ontario and beyond.