Learn How to Save a Life

During the Fremont 5k last year, as we ran up the Burke-Gilman Trail right before crossing Stone Way, I heard a large thud behind me that stopped me dead in my tracks.  When I turned around, I saw a man lying on the trail.  He was unconscious and clearly wasn’t breathing.

Many fellow runners stopped to try and give the man aid, but I noticed how—during the frenzy of it all—people were unsure about administering proper CPR.  One person applied chest compressions while another person argued that he needed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.  Since it had been about five years since I last completed CPR training, I was also a bit rusty with the whole compression-to-breath ratio.  Thankfully, a nurse stepped in to take over the CPR, until the paramedics arrived moments later with an AED (automatic external defibrillator) that saved his life.

A few days later, I was very relieved to hear from the race director that the man had survived, but it reinforced two things in my mind: 1) that sudden cardiac arrest really can happen anytime, anywhere without any prior warnings or symptoms; and 2) that knowing CPR and how to operate an AED are vital skills for everyone.  You never know if or when you’ll need to apply those skills, but if you should ever happen to witness something so scary, you’ll be prepared.

I mention this story because Wallyreader “Robba” posted an announcement on the Forums that he and his wife own and operate CPR Seattle on Stone Way between 42nd and 43rd.  Right now, they’re offering fellow Wallyreaders a 60% discount on an Adult/Child/Infant CPR class this coming Monday night (August 30) at 5:30 p.m.  The class is 1.5 to 2 hours long and it comes with an American Heart Association certification card.  If you already have one, check to see when it expires, and consider taking a refresher course if it’s been awhile.  Trust me, it’s easy to forget some of the basics.

To get to the enrollment page specific to the class for Monday, choose “Adult/Child/Infant CPR (w/AED option) from the class list on their website. This will take you to the class schedule where you will find the 8/30 class listed. Alternatively, just use this link. Use the promo code wallycpr during enrollment.  Also, when you enroll, don’t “add” the AED training as an extra component, since it’s normally an additional charge.  Instead, when you go to the class on Monday night, tell them you’ve read this post and you’re interested in learning how to use an AED. Class size is limited to 12 persons. Feel free to call them 774-8762 with any questions.

Thanks, Robba, for providing such a great service to the neighborhood!