Chicago Bears and American Heart Association Partner to Train Youth in Lifesaving CPR Skills

The Chicago Bears and the American Heart Association (AHA) joined forces at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Girls Flag Football State Finals to provide lifesaving CPR and AED training to over 150 participants. This initiative highlights the urgent need for bystander CPR knowledge, as immediate action can significantly increase survival rates in cardiac emergencies.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the AHA, stressed the importance of early intervention in cardiac emergencies, noting the critical difference it makes in survival outcomes. The training focused on Hands-Only CPR, a simplified technique that is effective in the crucial first minutes after cardiac arrest.

Tanesha Wade of the Chicago Bears emphasized the role of education in improving emergency medical outcomes in sports. This event is part of a larger effort by the AHA and the NFL's Smart Heart Sports Coalition to advocate for state-wide policies that address cardiac arrest prevention among high school athletes.

With cardiac arrest being a leading cause of death for student-athletes, the partnership between the Chicago Bears and the AHA represents a vital step towards community resilience and safety. By training young athletes and coaches, the initiative aims to create a network of individuals capable of responding to cardiac emergencies, thereby saving lives beyond the sports field.

The AHA's commitment to resuscitation science and education is evident in this collaboration, which aligns with its mission to advance heart health and save lives. As the organization marks its centennial, initiatives like this underscore its dedication to fostering a nation of lifesavers.