Chicago, May 3, 2024 — John Hersey High School sophomore, Shyla Sood, has been named the first ever American Heart Association, Chicago Teen of Impact Winner for her work to raise funds and awareness in the fight against heart disease and stroke. The Teen of Impact campaign is focused on improving health and well-being by engaging teens in a fundraising competition for the Association. In the United States, cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 cause of death. The Teen of Impact initiative brings together Gen Z champions from all over the country who are dedicated to changing this statistic through educating their local communities.
“Heart health awareness should start young. Unfortunately, we saw more than 100 cardiac arrests in Illinois in patients under 18 years old, to say nothing of the many congenital heart defects and other conditions that can affect young people,” said Samantha Netluch, development director of impact campaigns for the American Heart Association, Chicago. “Education around issues like exercise, nutrition and, most importantly, CPR, can make a huge difference in ensuring all demographics are part of a true nation of lifesavers.” Nation of Lifesavers is the Association’s educational campaign around CPR and AED usage.
The American Heart Association’s youth and teen initiatives, like Teen of Impact, work to inspire a younger generation to increase heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change, improving lives across the nation.
Over nine weeks, Sood, an Arlington Heights native, along with a team of peers, competed for Chicago’s inaugural Teen of Impact title by participating in community awareness and fundraising activities. Sood’s campaign involved raising critical funds and driving health education initiatives, including a “Hersey’s Orange Goes Red” CPR training event held at her high school and publicized by the school’s administration and student clubs. Sood also promoted her efforts through an article in the suburban Chicago newspaper, the Daily Herald.
For Shyla Sood, the campaign was a personal one. When she was in eighth grade, Sood’s father, a physician, suffered a heart attack. Sood says that being in an area where he could receive immediate emergency care saved her father’s life.
The Teen of Impact campaign launched in over 30 cities on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 2. In the Chicagoland area, four teens were nominated to participate. Collectively, this year’s nominees raised more than $30,000 to support the American Heart Association’s vital work in Chicago, while using innovative methods to educate their communities in CPR. These included locally filmed CPR videos and educational seminars. Because of the efforts of these trailblazing teens, Chicago’s first foray into Teen of Impact was the No. 1 campaign in the Midwest.
Other local nominees included:
- Evan Pope & Vivien Pope – Oak Park River Forest High School
- Jay Manadan – Whitney Young High School
Heart disease and stroke can impact anyone at any age. Passionate teens like those involved in Teen of Impact are leading the way for this next generation to live longer and healthier lives
To find out more information and nominate a local teen, visit: http://teenofimpact.heart.org.
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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:
Jorie GoinsJorie.Goins@Heart.org
(312) 298-9335