Knowledge is POWER!

Did you know that Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) kills nearly 300,000 Americans each year? That's about 1,000 people per day. While the number is much lower for youth because of the rarity, it still afflicts people of all ages. It is of utmost importance to be aware of necessary actions. And just like  Frances Bacon quoted - "Knowledge is power"!  Knowing what to do, when to do it and DOING IT is the best way to act if SCA hits.

To know how to prevent a fatality caused by SCA (Sudden Cardiac Arrest), it is also important to know exactly what happens to the heart during the process. There is an electrical disruption in the heart's rhythm and the heart stops beating. Most cases of SCA strikes suddenly and without warning which causes victims to collapse and become unconscious.Without the proper reactions - many die.


In order for a victim to survive is through quick action with CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator. AED's should be available in public places and bystanders should always be prepared and know the correct way of performing CPR. It is becoming more common that schools are requiring coaches, teachers and athletic trainers be schooled and trained in CPR and AED use.

According to statistics between 5,000-7,000 youth in the United States die from SCA each year. And approximately one (1) youth aged athlete suffers from SCA every three days. Those who have been saved only survived because they were in a high school with an AED program and surrounded by those who knew how to take action.

Living for Zachary completely supports the efforts in installing AED's in schools nationwide and we hope and pray that you take the information and share it with others. For more information about AED programs you can visit www.suddencardiacarrest.org.