I GOT CAUGHT PROGRAM THROUGH FINLEY HOSPITAL GIVES AWAY FREE BICYCLES

I GOT CAUGHT PROGRAM THROUGH FINLEY HOSPITAL GIVES AWAY FREE BICYCLES
November 23, 2009

Finley Hospital, through its I Got Caught program, is pleased to announce the winners of its bike give-away. Jerica Craddeith, age 12, and Lizzy Konrardy, age 8 of will be presented with new bikes, November 24 at 6:00 pm at Finley Hospital. Craddeith and Konrardy along with several hundred Iowa youth were eligible for the drawing thanks to their safe habits. A total of 10 bicycles will be awarded by Iowa Health System Affiliate hospitals throughout the state.

As an Iowa Health System community partnership program based at Finely Hospital, the mission of the I Got Caught program is to reward children for wearing helmets and life jackets in an effort to prevent traumatic brain injuries on water craft, bicycles, skateboards, roller blades and scooters. The program utilizes law enforcement to “catch” young Iowans to positively reward them for practicing good safety habits. Children “caught” in the act receive a sticker, a coupon for a free small Frosty at participating Wendy’s restaurants, and an entry form for a free bike giveaway.

The I Got Caught program is possible due to support from Iowa Health System, AAA Minnesota/Iowa, Wendy’s Restaurants, and law enforcement agencies.

Craddieth was biking in her neighborhood when she was caught by a local Dubuque police officer. “She usually wears her helmet,” said Craddieth’s mother. “This time it really paid off.”

Konrardy was at the ski club in Dubuque when a Department of Natural Resources water patrol officer spotted her with her life jacket on. “She was really excited about getting a ticket, and of course the Frosty,” said Konrardy’s mom. “This is an excellent program for kids.”

Each year more than 800 bicyclists are killed and another 500,000 are injured in the United States. However, statistics have shown that, when used properly, helmets reduce the risk of a traumatic brain injury by as much as 88 percent.

For more information about the I Got Caught Program call 319-226-2155 or log onto Iowa Health System www.ihs.org and click on the For the Community tab to access the I Got Caught link.

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