The Monthly Spotlight

American Heart Month

As we see all the heart-themed decorations for Valentine's Day, we can be reminded that February is also American Heart Month. In the U.S. it is estimated that approximately 23,000 children experience Sudden Cardiac Arrest outside of hospitals.¹ With Alabama legislation passing the John Wesley Foster Act, it is now required for all public schools to have a CERP plan in place, maintain equipment and training in order to be prepared in case of sudden cardiac emergencies at schools and athletic functions.¹ Alabama has a connection with a nation-wide program called Project ADAM. This non-profit organization is dedicated to providing schools and athletic programs with free resources, training and the opportunity to achieve "Heart Safe" designation.² There are currently two affiliate programs in the state of Alabama: Alabama LifeStart at Children's of Alabama³ and Project ADAM at USA Children's and Women's Hospital. ⁴ Please check out the video above about a life saved through the effective use of an AED at a school sporting event in North Alabama.

1. American Heart Association-New cardiac safety in schools law backed by American Heart Association
2. Project ADAM Heart Safe Programs
3. Alabama LifeStart
4. USA Children's and Women's Hospital-Project ADAM