Written by Joe Suppes

More Than Just Moral Support

Friends and family can be a big part of maintaining heart health.  People struggling to stay on top of their cholesterol numbers need a network of people to support them.  This doesn’t always mean the entire family has to change their diet or start to exercise (although, it’s a good idea).  Knowing about the problem can be a major step towards being part of that support net.  Consider what could happen, and ways to prepare for it.

American Heart Association Helps Simplify the Process

A great way to do this is to get certified in CPR.  While no one wants to think about the possibility of a friend or family member having a heart attack, CPR certification is a good idea.  What a lot of people don’t realize is how easy it can be to get certified.  The class only takes a few hours.  Think of it this way:  it takes longer to go through corrective driving school after a speeding ticket than it does to get your CPR certification from the American Heart Association.

Another thing to keep in mind is that CPR can make the difference between a heart attack and a fatal heart attack.  And it’s not just enough to think you know CPR…it has to be done right, or else there could be serious complications.

History of Heart Problems Drove Me To Get Certified.

When I was offered the chance to take the class, I figured it’d be something good to put on a resume, or applications for volunteer projects.  It took a few weeks for me to realize there would be other benefits.  Heart problems run rampant in my family.  It’s just another degree of preparedness.  In addition to that, I’m certified through the state to work with children within a volunteer setting.  My CPR certification automatically put me higher up on the list than people who have more experience.  I had never stopped to realize before I got my American Heart Association card that this would be a good personal move.  While I’ve never had to use it, the possibility of being able to make that difference gives me a little peace of mind.

I guess this needs to be looked at as a possible chance to help anyone, anywhere.  Even if you have a loved one who is concerned with their heart health, there could always be that chance to help someone elsewhere, too.  Just a few hours taken out of a week, and you could end up saving a life.

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