MINNEAPOLIS - May 20, 2013- Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) announced today that applications are being accepted for the inaugural Bakken Invitation, a global program designed to celebrate those who, with the help of medical technology, have overcome health challenges and are now selflessly giving back to their communities.  The application deadline is June 28. 

Medtronic will honor ten inspirational individuals who have used their "extra life" to serve others with a $20,000 charitable grant, donated to a non-profit organization selected by the honoree, and an awards celebration in Hawaii from Nov. 15 - 17, 2013.

The Bakken Invitation is inspired by Earl Bakken, an inventor, entrepreneur, philanthropist and co-founder of Medtronic.  He is best known for developing the first external, battery-powered, transistorized wearable pacemaker, an invention that has saved millions of lives and shaped the modern medical device industry.  Bakken also is a patient.  He estimates his pacemaker, coronary stents and insulin pump have given him more than 10 years of "extra life," which he has used to give back through substantial community involvement.

"While medical technology improves the life of one person at a time, it also creates a social impact that reaches far beyond one patient," says Bakken.  "I've been asking the same question for years, 'What are you going to do with your extra life?'   If medical technology is helping you, as it helps me, then my hope is that one can think of ways, big or small, to give back."

To qualify, nominees 14 years or older must use a medical device therapy to treat the following disease categories: heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, spinal disorders, or neurological, gastroenterology and urological disorders. All applicants with eligible medical technology are welcome to apply, regardless of device manufacturer. Applicants must have an established relationship of involvement with a legal non-profit organization for six months or more.

Applications will be accepted May 20 until June 28, 2013. To apply or nominate someone for this honor, visit www.LiveOnGiveOn.org. A selection committee will review all nominations, and winners will be announced in August.

Follow the program and stay inspired with real-time updates on Facebook.com/Medtronic and Twitter.com/Medtronic #LiveOnGiveOn

About Medtronic Philanthropy
Medtronic Philanthropy focuses on expanding access to quality chronic disease care among underserved populations worldwide, in addition to supporting health initiatives in communities where Medtronic employees live and give.

About Medtronic
Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology-alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world.  

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Contacts:
Rich Fischer
Public Relations
+1-763-505-2975