MONTGOMERY, Ala., Aug. 19, 2024 –Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed the John Wesley Foster Act, legislation that requires public schools to have a cardiac emergency response plan (CERP) in place that instructs people to dial 911, start CPR, and use an AED on campus and at school-sponsored athletic events in the case of a cardiac emergency.

The American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives for all and You’re the Cure advocates worked alongside coalition members and other organizations across Alabama to push for this policy that will increase survival rates from cardiac arrests that happen outside of a hospital.

The Act is named after John Wesley Foster, a Gadsen, Ala., boy who died after experiencing cardiac arrest at the age of 9 in November 2006.

“John Wesley was a devoted, loving child who loved sports, his family and would often help others,” said his mother, Heather Amberson. “As a nurse, I know how important it is for everyone to learn CPR. When someone suffers cardiac arrest, we all need to act quickly, call 911 and start CPR before paramedics arrive. It is my sincere hope this legislation will empower schools to save the lives of students, parents, teachers, and other school visitors.”

It is estimated that about 23,000 children under the age of 18 experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital annually in this country. Of those children, about 40% 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.  In schools with AEDs, approximately 70% of children survive cardiac arrest – 7 times the overall survival rate for children.

"Nothing is more important that the health and safety of Alabama students. This bill ensures that schools will have the training and tools necessary to respond quickly and efficiently to a cardiac event," said Rep. Ed Oliver (R-Dadeville), the bill's sponsor. “Equipping our schools and communities with immediate access to AEDs and people prepared to respond is key to saving lives when every second counts. The John Wesley Foster Act will further minimize risks for our students, but also makes our communities safer and healthier for everyone.”

More than 356,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital in the United States each year. Currently, only 10% of those people will survive, most likely because there were people nearby prepared to take action. CPR, if performed immediately, can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

“We are grateful to Representative Ed Oliver and the Alabama Legislature for their work on this bill. This legislation will increase the survival rate of students, school staff, and visitors experiencing cardiac arrest as they wait for Emergency Medical Services to arrive to the scene,” said Cory D. Moon, Fire Chief with Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service and American Heart Association board member.

For more information on CERP or CPR/AED training, visit heart.org.

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:

Josh Till, APR:  josh.till@heart.org

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

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