In April 2025, the American Heart Association shared a compelling story about a man whose heart stopped after a routine run. His daughter, a nurse, was present and immediately performed CPR, ultimately saving his life. This incident underscores a critical truth: cardiac arrests can occur without warning, and immediate action can be the difference between life and death.

The Reality of Cardiac Arrests at Home

According to the American Heart Association, approximately 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home. This statistic highlights the importance of having someone nearby who is trained in CPR. When a cardiac arrest occurs, every minute without intervention decreases the chance of survival by 10%. Unfortunately, emergency medical services often take several minutes to arrive, which can be too late.

The Power of Immediate CPR

Immediate administration of CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival after cardiac arrest. Despite this, less than half of cardiac arrest victims receive bystander CPR. The reluctance often stems from a lack of training or confidence. However, even basic knowledge of CPR can empower individuals to act decisively in emergencies.

Taking Action: Learn CPR Today

Given that most cardiac arrests occur at home, it's crucial for family members to be prepared. Learning CPR is a proactive step that can equip you to save the life of a loved one. Training courses are widely available and can provide the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively in emergencies.

Don't wait for a crisis to realize the importance of CPR training. Enroll in a course today and be prepared to make a life-saving difference when it matters most.

Picture of Dad back running: 

Mark Kleinschmidt at a race, holding a sign to thank his daughter Allison. (Photo courtesy of Mark Kleinschmidt)