Dallas Cowboys Players Invite Fans to Join the Nation of Lifesavers for CPR Awareness

Dallas Cowboys Players Promote Nation of Lifesavers for CPR Awareness

In an inspiring initiative, players from the Dallas Cowboys are teaming up with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about the critical life-saving skill of CPR. October 16, recognized as World Restart a Heart Day, marks the launch of the 2025 Nation of Lifesavers™ Player Ambassador Class, which boasts a roster of 30 current NFL players dedicated to promoting the importance of CPR education.

Among the ambassadors are none other than tight end Rivaldo Fairweather and cornerback Reddy Steward, both representatives of the Dallas Cowboys. Their active participation emphasizes the significance of understanding CPR, especially in emergency situations.

Rivaldo Fairweather shared his personal connection to CPR, highlighting the influence of his father who instilled in him the importance of this skill from an early age. "I am very proud and excited to be an ambassador of something that means a lot to me with the American Heart Association," Fairweather said, expressing his commitment to this vital cause.

Echoing Fairweather’s sentiments, Reddy Steward remarked on the urgency of CPR training, stating, "Just like how I am often asked to stop the opposing team’s wide receiver, I am proud to partner with the American Heart Association to help defend against sudden cardiac arrest. Seconds matter when the ball is in the air and seconds matter even more when someone is in need of CPR."

The Nation of Lifesavers initiative aims to combat the alarming statistic that over half of sudden cardiac arrest victims outside hospitals do not receive immediate CPR, resulting in a staggering 90% fatality rate. It is crucial to remember that learning Hands-Only CPR can take less than two minutes, yet it has the potential to double or triple a victim's chance of survival.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, underscored the collective effort behind this movement, stating, "Thanks to the leadership of the NFL and its players, including Damar Hamlin, millions of people now understand just how critical it is to be prepared to act. Our shared commitment has inspired a movement, and together we're building a nation of lifesavers."

The NFL's partnership with the American Heart Association enriches the community by providing resources and grants to enhance CPR and AED access. These efforts ensure that NFL fans and players alike are educated about the steps to take in emergencies. Since the program's inception, various NFL teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, have been integral in facilitating CPR training sessions for their players, staff, and local communities.

Moreover, this initiative is not only aimed at adults but is also extended to youth programs, where Hands-Only CPR education is a fundamental aspect of health and wellness activities within schools. Through initiatives like the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, students learn to recognize cardiac emergencies, call for help, and perform CPR.

The second annual Ambassador Class promises to further empower communities by educating them on a skill that can save lives. As part of the NFL PLAY 60 youth health and wellness initiative, the importance of CPR continues to spread across schools and neighborhoods, making heart health awareness top of mind.

As a collective action plan, the American Heart Association and the NFL are advocating for evidence-based public policies aimed at preventing cardiac-related fatalities among high school students. The data indicates that cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death among student-athletes in the nation, addressing it through educational opportunities can potentially alter these alarming statistics.

To ensure everyone is prepared to save lives, community members are encouraged to learn CPR today. Simple steps can enhance the chances of survival in emergencies and can profoundly impact families and communities. For more information on CPR training, visit heart.org/nation.

The Dallas Cowboys' involvement in the Nation of Lifesavers not only elevates awareness but demonstrates how sports can positively influence public health issues. As fans join in this crucial movement, they become part of a larger effort to promote safety, preparedness, and ultimately, life-saving skills in their everyday lives.