Detroit Lions and American Heart Association Train Hundreds in CPR at Ford Field

In a significant public health initiative, hundreds of Michigan residents received critical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training at Ford Field on September 16. The event, hosted by the Detroit Lions and the American Heart Association (AHA), marks a crucial step in improving cardiac arrest survival rates in the community.

The training session, the second of its kind at the stadium, offered participants two course options: the comprehensive Heartsaver® CPR course and a Hands-Only CPR education program. Both courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies, potentially doubling or tripling a victim's chances of survival.

This initiative addresses a pressing public health concern. According to AHA data, 9 out of 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital do not survive, largely due to the lack of immediate CPR. With more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring annually in the United States, and nearly 75% happening in homes, widespread CPR knowledge is critical.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of early action in cardiac emergencies. "When seconds matter, it is important to have people nearby who are confident and capable of beginning administering CPR," she stated, highlighting the event's role in strengthening this critical link in the community.

The Detroit Lions' involvement underscores the potential for sports organizations to contribute to public health initiatives. Roxanne Caine, Vice President of Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations, drew a parallel between sports and emergency response, noting, "Just as every play matters in sports, every action in CPR can be lifesaving."

Participants used the AHA's CPR in Youth Sports Kits, which include manikins and AED training tools. These kits will be donated to the community to support ongoing education efforts, extending the impact of the event beyond the day's training.

As the AHA celebrates its centennial year, this event represents a continuation of its mission to improve cardiovascular health and reduce deaths from heart disease and stroke. By empowering more individuals with CPR skills, the organization and its partners are working towards creating a more resilient and prepared community in the face of cardiac emergencies.