Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund donates AED defibrillator in memory of fallen London firefighter

The Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund donated an AED defibrillator in memory of a fallen London firefighter. CTV’s Lauren Stallone reports.

Byron Woods Montessori School received a defibrillator from the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund, a charity that donates AED defibrillators in memory of law enforcement, fire, paramedic, and military members killed in the line of duty.

Patrick Armstrong started the fund in honour of his beloved friend and fellow OPP officer, Dave Mounsey, who was killed in the line of duty in 2006.

“He and his partner Brenda raised money to donate a defibrillator to the local fire department and, unfortunately, didn’t live to see that donation,” said Armstrong. “Myself and some like-minded individuals came together to continue that last act of kindness towards the community.”

Patrick said the fund has saved seven lives since 2009.

“We’re here to donate our 216th defibrillator.” said Patrick. “This one is in memory of Donald Varey, who was captain at the London Fire Department.”

Donald’s children say they know their father would be “proud” and “happy” to know he is still helping save lives today.

“He’d be humble about it and not make a big deal,” said Chris Varey, Donald’s son.

“But he’d be very grateful for lifesaving measures available to people in a time of need,” added Shelley Bhabha, Donald’s daughter.

Armstrong said through the donation, Donald’s legacy will live on.

“All these professions are about saving lives and being there at the right time and that’s what a defibrillator is,” said Armstrong. “It may sit on a wall for two or three years and all of the sudden when it’s needed it jumps in.”

While the hope is that it is never needed, the device will continue to save lives and honour those who gave theirs.