I am 27 years old and currently living with a SADS condition (Long QT Syndrome). I am always happy to share my story as it sheds light to the importance and necessity of bystander CPR along with the use of an AED.
In 2007 I was 16 years old, running the mile at school when I suddenly collapsed. I was found without a pulse and while the odds of me surviving then were minimal (survival rates for out of hospital SCA in 2013 were 3%), I was extremely lucky and had peers and teachers that took action. My teacher performed CPR, another called 911, and a student ran to get the AED. Before the paramedics arrived my teachers and peers had performed basic life support, including an AED to restore my heart beat.
I was fitted for a pacemaker/ICD shortly after and now live healthy with medication and regular cardiologist visits. I’m eternally grateful for the people who took action on December 7th, 2007 and I live with the daily reminder of the importance of knowing how to save a life.
I currently work for the American Heart Association on the Community Impact team and I use any and every chance I get to have our volunteers learn basic life support. That’s my way of paying it forward, showing my gratitude for this life, and for the ones who saved me.
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