Learn CPR at the ‘Be a Heartstarter’ Event at the Cajundome in Lafayette

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you were prepared to save a life? Wouldn't you hate to stand by helpless if someone had a heart attack and you didn't know what to do?

The 14th annual “Be a Heart Starter!” training day will be held at the Cajundome on Saturday, May 3rd. Because nearly 16,000 Acadiana residents have been trained (since the program began in 2000,) the survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest in our local are has increased from one percent to over 35 percent.

Did you know that 75% of all sudden cardiac arrests happen at home? Many times nobody who witnesses it knows how to administer CPR.  Chances of survival are reduced seven to 10 percent each minute CPR is delayed.

“The fact that we are holding the 14th year of this event is only possible with the sponsorship and volunteer support of the Acadiana medical community and other community-minded companies and organizations that believe in making Acadiana a safer place to live,” says Dr. Charles Wyatt, event founder and medical director. “We encourage everyone to register for this year’s event, even if you have taken the course before.  You never know when CPR training can save a friend or family member.”

This event is open to anyone middle school-age or older who wants to learn, and it's FREE!  Two, two-hour sessions on Saturday, May 3. The first one is at 8 AM and the second at 10:30 AM.  There will even be special training table areas for those who are not able to kneel comfortably during training. A segment  on stroke recognition will also be included.

Advance registration is requested by calling toll-free 877-242-4277 or online at www.heartstarter.org.  Each participant will receive a “Be A Heart Starter!” T-shirt, a training course participation certificate and more.

Two hours out of your life might help someone else live years longer!