South Charlotte Today

The American Heart Association (AHA) is strengthening its efforts to increase cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) education in Charlotte. The initiative, under the AHA's Nation of Lifesavers movement, receives strong backing from The David & Nicole Tepper Foundation (DNTF) with a $600,000 donation. This funding is aimed at training coaches, athletes, and officials in youth sports, alongside providing CPR education for the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Department and affordable housing communities.

"This ongoing commitment from the foundation helps everyone throughout Tepper Sports and Entertainment be ready to identify, act and save lives in a cardiac emergency. When seconds matter, it is important to have people nearby who are confident and capable of administering CPR and adding lifesavers in the Charlotte community," noted Nancy Brown, AHA's CEO. She emphasized the vital role of CPR training in preparing the public to perform CPR and save lives.

Data from the AHA highlights the urgency of immediate response during cardiac arrest incidents, noting that nearly 9 out of 10 individuals who suffer cardiac arrest outside hospital settings do not survive without immediate CPR. The AHA aims to double the survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest by 2030.

The importance of expanding CPR training was further underscored in 2023 during the cardiac arrest incident of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin. In response, the Teppers facilitated the Heartsaver CPR AED course at Tepper Sports & Entertainment, marking them as the first NFL entity to collaborate with the AHA in such an initiative to improve emergency responses.

"The American Heart Association is leading the charge for cardiovascular health education and support across the country, and we at The David & Nicole Tepper Foundation are proud to continue this important, life-saving work right here in our community," said Nicole Tepper. Expanding the AHA's training services across Mecklenburg County exemplifies this commitment.

The foundation extends its efforts by offering Heartsaver credentials renewal opportunities for employees at no cost, reinforcing the mission to increase lifesaver numbers in the community.

DNTF's contribution is reflected in national survey results, with more Americans expressing readiness to perform CPR in emergencies. Between 2021 and 2023, survey data indicated a rise in confidence among U.S. adults to perform CPR, rising from 30% to 35%, reflective of initiatives like those powered by DNTF's support.

For more information on CPR training, the public can visit the AHA's website to learn about Hands-Only CPR, described as quick, simple, and effective in cardiac arrest situations.

The American Heart Association, a leading force in resuscitation science and training, continues its mission to improve survival rates and health outcomes globally. The organization, along with its volunteers, works passionately toward longer, healthier lives for all.