OKLAHOMA CITY, March 4, 2024 — The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is inviting all Oklahoma athletic teams, coaches and school officials to Rally Day at the Oklahoma Capitol at 11:30 a.m. April 8. Former University of Oklahoma player and NY Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard and other star athletes will be in attendance, and there will be opportunities to learn hands-only CPR and advocate for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans, or CERPs, in schools. 

About 23,000 children under 18 experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital each year. About 40% of these events are sports related. 

Whether in the classroom or on the playing field, having a plan in place to enable faculty, staff and students to quickly, and correctly, respond to a cardiac emergency can save lives. CPR, if performed immediately, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. And in schools with AEDs, approximately 70% of children survive cardiac arrest – 7 times the overall survival rate for children. 

Schools are often a gathering place for community events. Parents and community members are often at schools for plays, concerts, and athletic events, so schools having a plan that is regularly reviewed and practiced can have a tremendous impact. 

“Think about how much time our students and their families spend in school facilities year-round,” said Alisa Northcutt, government relations director for the American Heart Association in Oklahoma.  “Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any age at any time. We want all students and school personnel to be able to act fast and accurately to ensure high rates of survival.” 

The Rally is being held at the state Capitol in conjunction with You’re the Cure at the Capitol – a day when the American Heart Association connects volunteers with their state legislators to advocate for health policies that create better health outcomes for Oklahomans.

Oklahoma State Sen. Paul Rosino of Oklahoma City has filed Senate Bill 1921 to ensure all schools in Oklahoma are prepared for cardiac arrest emergencies by requiring CERPs in school facilities throughout the state. The bill has passed the Senate health committee and will soon go before the entire Senate. 

The Association is asking its advocates to reach out to their state elected officials for support of SB 1921. 

“We’d all like to believe that bystanders are trained and ready to step up when we or someone we love suffers cardiac arrest, but Sen. Rosino’s proposed legislation goes a step further to make it mandatory,” said Northcutt. 

Sterling Shepard is an Oklahoma treasure and a star wide receiver in the NFL for the New York Giants. He is the son of Derrick Shepard, who played at Oklahoma and in the NFL from 1987 to 1991, also as a wide receiver. Derrick died when Sterling was six; Sterling’s mother, Cheri, remains in the Oklahoma City area. Several other recognizable sports figures are expected to join Rally Day, along with other young athletes interested in creating a legacy of health in Oklahoma schools. Miss Oklahoma Sunny Day will also be in attendance. 

Anyone may attend the rally, though registration is preferred at https://www.yourethecure.org/OK or by texting OKRALLY to 46839. 

About the American Heart Association 

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For Media Inquiries 

Cyd King: M 479.263.8473; cyd.king@heart.org 

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) 

heart.org and stroke.org