#United States #Pittsburgh #Empowerment #Sudden Cardiac Arrest #Awareness Campaign

February is American Heart Month

As February rolls in, the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation is taking the lead in raising awareness for a critical issue during American Heart Month—the plight of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). This life-threatening emergency occurs unexpectedly when the heart stops beating, affecting individuals across all age groups, including those who appear to be in good health. When an SCA event occurs, the affected person typically collapses and fails to respond or breathe normally, sometimes exhibiting gasping or shaking movements that may resemble seizures. Without immediate intervention, an SCA can lead to death within minutes. Thus, rapid response is necessary for survival, including calling emergency services, initiating CPR, and deploying an automated external defibrillator (AED) when available.

Importance of Awareness

SCA is an alarming concern, impacting around 1,000 individuals in the U.S. daily and ranking among the leading causes of death nationwide. Shockingly, only about 10% of these victims survive. This reality underscores the urgent need for increased public awareness and understanding surrounding SCA, as prompt bystander action significantly enhances survival chances. With approximately 70% of out-of-hospital SCAs occurring in residential settings, the potential for loved ones to become rescuers is high, making it crucial for everyone to be informed and prepared.

Join the Campaign

In recognition of American Heart Month, the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation is rolling out the #EmpoweringHeartsToSaveLives awareness campaign. This initiative encourages the public to deepen their understanding of SCA and equips them with the knowledge necessary to take action during such emergencies. Participants can engage in several ways:

• - Social Media Engagement: Share informative posts from the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation’s social media pages to help spread the word.
• - Photo and Selfie Challenge: Take part in the challenge by showcasing your commitment to saving lives. Download the printable campaign sign and share your image online.
• - Survivor Stories: View inspiring videos featuring SCA survivors sharing their personal journeys and the importance of knowing how to perform CPR and operate an AED.
• - Quiz Yourself: Test your knowledge about SCA by participating in the interactive online quiz available on their website.

To explore all these initiatives and access resources, visit www.sca-aware.org/heart-month for the complete campaign toolkit.

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, an occasion celebrated with the release of a special resource titled "20 Ways to Support and Engage." This comprehensive guide provides twenty valuable suggestions for advocates, supporters, and professionals to assist the foundation's mission in meaningful ways.

Moreover, in recognition of this milestone, the foundation encourages supporters to consider making a $20 donation to aid their ongoing efforts in raising awareness and potentially saving lives. Donations can be made through various methods, including online payment options or check submissions. As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, all contributions are tax-deductible according to U.S. law.

About the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation is a national 501(c)(3) organization aimed at eradicating preventable deaths and disabilities caused by sudden cardiac arrest while supporting affected individuals and families. Their mission is focused on raising SCA awareness and advocating for initiatives that educate communities and promote lifesaving measures, including CPR training and AED access. The organization is also behind the Cardiac Arrest Survivor Alliance and a proud collaborator in the Call-Push-Shock movement.

For media inquiries, please contact Gina Peattie, MPA, at the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation (518-291-9181). For further details, visit www.sca-aware.org.

This February, take action, get informed, and empower yourself and others to potentially save lives!