We started early Friday morning at the base of the iconic Washington Monument for the opening ceremonies. Surrounded by 5,000 flags—each representing a life impacted by sudden cardiac arrest—we listened to emotional dedications and guest speakers before participating in a quiet memory walk. It was a profound reminder of exactly why we are here.
Later in the afternoon, the momentum continued as we marched from the Washington Monument to the front of the White House. Our main goal here? Action. We took to the streets to teach hands-only CPR directly to the public, empowering tourists and locals alike with the skills to save a life.
In the Community: Free Heart Screenings
While our team was marching, vital preventative work was happening just down the road. Throughout the day, free youth heart screenings were offered at George Washington University, helping to detect hidden heart conditions before they become critical.
Understanding the Fight: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)
Being here reinforces a stark reality: Sudden Cardiac Arrest is not a heart attack. It is an electrical malfunction in the heart that causes it to suddenly stop beating.
- The Reality: SCA can strike anyone, anywhere, at any age—even young athletes.
- The Clock: When SCA occurs, every second literally counts. Brain damage can begin in just 4 to 6 minutes.
- The Solution: Bystander CPR and immediate use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can double or triple a victim's chance of survival.
We are incredibly proud to stand alongside Every Second Counts CPR, survivors, and advocates today. By teaching the public and honoring those we’ve lost, we can build a world where cardiac arrest doesn't mean the end of a life.
Learn More & Take Action
Want to learn more about sudden cardiac arrest or find out how you can help build a safer, heart-ready community? Check out these vital national resources:
Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation – Dedicated to raising awareness and programs that give ordinary people the power to save a life.
Call·Push·Shock – Essential tools and guidance to help you recognize and respond to a cardiac emergency.
American Heart Association – Leading research, CPR training guidelines, and health advocacy information.
Cardiac Arrest Survivor Alliance (CASA) – A supportive community network for survivors, families, and advocates.
Follow Along All Week: Check out the quick links below as we publish our daily recaps:
Arrival: Team Arrival / Kickoff
Advocacy Day: Advocacy Day: The Capitol March (You are Here)
Training Day: Training Day: World Record Attempt (Link coming soon)
Event Wrap-Up : Event Wrap-Up: Reflection (Link coming soon)
Keep an eye right here for daily updates, photos, and highlights as the events unfold!
