In 2022, I lost my dad to a sudden cardiac arrest that occurred while he was enjoying his favorite pastime - bicycling on his local nature trail. He was an active, healthy 59-year-old with no prior heart conditions. In the years since, I've discovered how heartbreakingly common my experience is. In roughly 50% of sudden cardiac deaths, there are no prior symptoms before the heart simply stops -- and 9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die. 

 

After my dad passed away, I completed a CPR training course through the American Heart Association and now feel prepared to aid if I ever find myself as a bystander in a cardiac emergency situation. I continue to support the AHA because their mission advances this lifesaving CPR training, as well as critical cardiovascular research.

 

If you're able to contribute, thank you so much! Every dollar donated means more people like myself can transform from bystanders into lifesavers.