Linda Dickson, Chair of the Gateway Chapter of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association, demonstrates how an AED works during the survivor birthday party. Photo by Rick Graefe. Courtesy of Suburban Journals.

On May 19^th, the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter hosted its 2^nd annual B-Day party for survivors of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The survivors are alive today because an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) was readily available to be used to save their life. In addition to the survivors, their heroes who were involved in saving them were also honored. In total, around 30 people attended to the celebration. You can read more about the event and see several photos in this article from the Florissant News.

Since the initial survivor party last June, the group has been enthusiastic and expressed an interest in becoming a more formal group. In January, they became the Gateway Chapter of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association (SCAA) with 17 members, 10 of which are survivors. Last year at this time, there were 6 survivors, 4 spouses, and me. The group is really moving forward to spread the word about SCA and the importance of AEDs by being part of Health Fairs, February Heart Month activities with several of the local hospitals, speaking engagements with various organizations, speaking at the beginning of area CPR/AED classes, and a variety of media opportunities—TV, radio, newspaper.  Linda Dickson, our chair, is a real go-getter and does a great job of making the presence of the Chapter known.     

Our next meeting is scheduled for Wed. July 21 at 6:30 p.m.; location still to be announced. You are welcome to attend as a visitor or enroll as a member (no dues). These survivors each have an amazing story to tell. Hope to see you there! 

And be sure to check out the Gateway Chapter’s website on suddencardiacarrest.org. 

Thanks again. And, if you know of anyone who has a church, school, business or other organization looking to explore AEDs, please send them our way! 

Dana

Dana Garner is the AED Program Specialist for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.