A Reminder That CPR Can Save A Life

The sobering medical episode involving professional football player Damar Hamlin that played out on national television last week not only captivated our nation but also served as a clear reminder of the importance of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, more commonly known as CPR.

Hamlin, a 24-year-old defensive back for the Buffalo Bills, collapsed on the field after getting up from a tackle-collision with Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins.

Hamlin was experiencing cardiac arrest and the quick action of Buffalo’s medical staff has been credited with taking the “vital action” that helped save the young man’s life.

Denny Kellington, assistant athletic trainer for the Bills, has been singled out for his immediate actions, that included performing CPR. 

CPR was first introduced in the 1960s but didn’t become widely known or practiced until  the ‘70s when a University of Washington cardiologist, Dr. Leonard Cobb, launched the world’s first mass citizen training in CPR. Since then, millions of people around the world have received CPR training and who knows  how many lives have been saved.

Interest in CPR training had been on the decline since COVID but The American Heart Association says traffic to its CPR training page has jumped by 200% over the past week.

Certified CPR training classes are widely available, including locally for both individuals and groups from Glenwood Fire & Rescue. There is a nominal fee involved for instructional materials but getting signed up is easy.

“Just call the station number (712-527-2093) and they’ll get in touch with the CPR instructor,” GFD Chief Matt Gray said.

Gray recommends asking for either Jake Weilage or Gavin Gray when inquiring about the class.