A Lesson From Tim Russert

07/10/08 Prevention

Sudden cardiac arrest strikes in the blink of an eye and without the immediate use of an automatic external defibrillator (AED), it is fatal. Sudden cardiac arrest can be caused by abnormal heart rhythms, blockages, congenital defects, trauma, and underlying heart disease. Not everyone can be saved. Tim Russert’s heart disease was very advanced for example. But for many people the simple AED and the help of a bystander with a few minutes of training can save their life.

Still, hundreds of people die unnecessarily each day because no one steps in to help or an AED is not available.

What can you do?

Learn CPR:
According to the American Heart Association about 455 people are saved each day by bystander CPR. You are most likely to perform CPR on someone you know and care about. It is easy and inexpensive to learn. Order the CPR Anytime kit and educate your entire family or workplace for under $50!

Locate an AED:
Do you have an AED in your workplace, school, shopping center, or health club? Do you know where it is? Most public places now have AEDs located near fire extinguishers or entrances. Be aware; locating the device quickly may be the difference between life and death. If your workplace doesn’t have an AED, get one. For an investment of less than $1,000 you can safeguard your co-workers.

Don’t be afraid:
Many bystanders are hesitant to step in, even if they are trained. You cannot make the situation worse by calling 911, grabbing the AED, and starting CPR. Take a chance on being someone’s hero!

Visit SCAA:
The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association provides wonderful resources for survivors and those interested in preventing SCA deaths. The survivor and caregiver community on this site is knowledgeable about the aftereffects of SCA, living with an implanted defibrillator, and other underlying cardiac conditions. It is a wonderful resource.

For more Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Busy People visit Eliz’s blog at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com.

Eliz Greene survived a sudden cardiac arrest at age thirty-five while seven-months pregnant with twins. She is a heart health educator, freelance writer, and speaker on a mission to help busy people lead healthier lives.