This article originally appeared January 5, 2023 in Newsweek by Lindsay Davis. Read the full article here: https://www.newsweek.com/public-rallied-behind-hamlins-program-kidswill-it-do-same-protect-young-athletes-opinion-1771669
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s frightening on-field cardiac arrest on live Monday Night Football highlighted how critical having emergency response equipment and personnel can be to life-saving efforts. The incident also reminded us that neither equipment nor trained personnel are available in most American youth sports leagues, despite similar potential for life-threatening injuries.
…each of us must now begin to ask straightforward questions, such as whether student athletes and coaches in public schools receive education about heart conditions and treatment, whether each student, trainer and coach is trained on CPR, and whether an AED is available for every sport and every game. If those common-sense measures are lacking, please join me in contacting your elected representatives to demand change that protects student athletes and helps ensure the best possible outcome when sudden cardiac arrest occurs.
