Are you READY for the 2013 IncREDible Heart Run?

This year marks another that the popular Living for Zachary HeartRun will sweep across the metroplex and raise awareness and funds for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) .

October 26, the 2013 IncREDible Heart Run will be the official kick off launch for the Downtown Plano Feastival which will offer heart screenings, live music, food vendors, kids zones and even a vintage car show.

The run is either a 5K or a 1 mile run/walk that opens at 7 a.m., with the first race kicking off at 8:30 a.m.

Before joining, make sure and fill out the appropriate paperwork for free heart screenings or volunteer information, in case you want to be a part of something special without having to lace up those running shoes in the closet!

So join us for the fun and start training now for a great cause. Find out more information here.

The TRUE needs for AEDs

Automated external defibrillators are portable electronic devices that save thousands of lives each year! The device checks heart rhythm, diagnosis potential heart conditions and sends electrical impulses to the heart and attempts to “shock” it back into regular rhythm.

Because heart disease, illnesses and conditions are becoming more of a concern for patients worldwide, it’s important to realize that disaster can strike at any time. 

Taking precautionary steps can help lower your risk for heart complications, but it’s not guaranteed to keep you safe at all times. That’s why protection methods are just as needed as prevention methods.

Ask your business, school or church to be proactive in installing an AED somewhere within the facility to be available in case of a disaster. AEDs are simple to use, and many call out vocal commands to the user on where to put the sensors and steps to take in order for it to work properly. They’re so easy to use that anyone can save a life and it could just be you. 

Practice protection and prevention, join the cause to get AEDs put in more public spaces. Learn how to locate and use an AED - it will change your life if you have to use it. For information on the Living for Zachary AED Donation Program visit www.Living4zchary.org or click here. Apply for an AED - it cannot hurt!

Water - and staying hydrated

These days, it can seem difficult to stay hydrated even in the cooler weather.  After all, we’re running around the office, going from meeting to meeting and grabbing lunch on the go. Then we sit in traffic to head home, cook dinner and then hopefully get to bed at a decent time. Life can be tough.

But the benefits of staying hydrated are tremendous and should be taken seriously! Water isn’t the newest “trend”, it’s something that can keep you living healthy long beyond what you normally would.

Since water makes up nearly 60-70% of your body, it’s important to replenish what you lose from those long exercises and throughout the day. So put away the sugary energy drinks and grab yourself a cold bottle of water.

Here are a few tips to consider when trying to start a water-drinking habit!

1.     Drink water before you are thirsty. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.

2.     Keep a glass of water next to your bed, office, and anywhere else you’ll be spending a lot of time.

3.     Try and limit caffeinated drinks. Caffeine is a diuretic and can contribute to fluid lose.

Also, be aware of common signs of dehydration that include tiredness, sunken eyes, dry mouth or dark urination.