SUMTER, SC, Feb. 12, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is excited to announce that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) kits will be donated to Lakewood High School and Sumter High School during American Heart Month.

This year, as the American Heart Association celebrates their 100th birthday, the theme of American Heart Month is focused on creating a Nation of Lifesavers, empowering everyone to know the lifesaving skills of CPR. This initiative was made possible by donations from local philanthropists in association with the American Heart Association’s Sumter Heart Walk.

With more than 350,0000 people experiencing cardiac arrests outside of a hospital, including 23,000 children, CPR is a critical skill that kids as young as 9 years old can learn. The multi-year Nation of Lifesavers initiative will ensure teens and adults can learn about CPR and AED use, share that knowledge with friends and family and engage employers, policymakers, philanthropists, and others to create support for a nation of lifesavers.

“CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest. As we continue to see so many student athletes experiencing cardiac issues, adults and children need to learn the lifesaving skills of CPR in case of a cardiac emergency,” said Dr. Christopher Huffman, cardiologist and Board President of the Midlands American Heart Association.

Data shows that communities with lower income and education levels or higher percentages of people of color have lower survival from cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, and a higher burden of disease. Rural communities also experience worse outcomes. Using a targeted approach to teaching CPR in areas affected by these statistics to ensure all students are trained in CPR prior to graduation is crucial.

With populations of over 1,080 students at Lakewood High School, and over 2,300 at Sumter High School, this project has the potential to impact thousands of students and families for generations to come.

 

***Media Opportunity***

What: CPR in schools kit presentation

Who: The American Heart Association and school officials

When & Where:    

Lakewood High School, Feb. 14 at 4:00 pm | 350 Old Manning Rd, Sumter

Sumter High School, Feb. 21 at 4:00 pm | 2580 Mccrays Mill Rd, Sumter

                                   

Additional Resources:

 

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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. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.     

 

For Media Inquiries:

Maranda Williams, maranda.williams@heart.org, 803-873-2563

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