The Chain of Survival when SCA strikes!

Has your life been affected by Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Have you known someone who has died from Sudden Cardiac Arrest? If so, you are not alone and if not, chances are you will be affected by SCA at some point.

Of course we all know that Sudden Cardiac Arrest has to do with the heart and most of us know that we should know CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation), but do you really know what the "odds" are if you are struck with SCA (Sudden Cardiac Arrest)?

Many researchers have said that the earlier a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)person is tended to and helped the better the chance of survival.  Many call this the "Chain of Survival". Professionals say that first need to recognize what is going on and act on it. Seek medical attention by calling 911 or have a bystander call. Inquire where the AED (Automated External Defibrillators) is and ask someone to retrieve it. Stay with the person until EMS arrives.

If you don't know CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation), learn it. It's not a difficult thing to learn and could save a life.If you are unsure where to take a class or find out information about CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation), check out the American Heart Association website.

If you want to help in other ways, get involved in an organization that supports awareness of Sudden Cardiac Arrest. You can join the Living for Zachary family by attending the Living for Zachary Golf Tournament on June 20, 2011. Living for Zachary welcomes donations, sponsors and volunteers. Let's all save a heart, together we can!

Celebrate the Hands of Time - 50 years of CPR - Learn it today!

Would you know what to do if someone around you went into cardiac arrest? It is likely most people would say "Sure! I would do CPR," but often there is a lot of misconception about performing CPR - this is a mistake that could cost a life.

Mouth-to-mouth is probably the first thing that pops in to mind when mentioning CPR. As strange as it seems to do mouth-to-mouth on a stranger, you may come upon a situation that requires you to perform this life saving action. However, you do need to know that when skipping mouth-to-mouth and immediately beginning chest compressions you will increase the victims chances of surviving by 25%.



CPR, or chest compressions, may also bring about a concern for the victim. Many times people worry about hurting the victim by breaking their ribs. This chance becomes more common as a person ages and becomes older and their bones are more brittle. But if a victim only has broken ribs in the end, it will be worth it! Broken ribs are nothing compared to living.

If a situation approaches and you are not able to get to the victim, you can still save try and save a life. Dial 911. By only dialing 911 the victim has a 1 in 20 chance of living with all functions intact. These functions are as life changing and often leave a person unable to do normal daily activities like walking, talking, and seeing.

It can also make a world of difference that someone has taken a CPR class and has become certified. To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of CPR, take a class and get smart about CPR and saving lives this holiday season.

The American Red Cross offers local classes to any individual interested in becoming CPR certified. Information about CPR Classes, visit the Red Cross Website or visit the American Heart Association website. It is so easy to find out where a CPR class is, just simply type in your area - it's that easy. Make a promise for 2011 that you will become CPR certified and help keep other's alive.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and New Year from all of us at
Living for Zachary!