Do you know CPR? On two different occasions, Jeff Backus was saved because a stranger was there to provide him CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
Hands-Only CPR is both very easy and important to learn. It is only two steps, and you can learn from a one-minute video created by the American Heart Association, Heart.org. According to the American Heart Association, if someone does receive Hands-Only CPR, their chances of survival are doubled and maybe even tripled.
Jeff Backus survived two cardiac arrests while running in Cherokee Park in Louisville, Kentucky.
“I decided I wanted to start running, so I was actually training to run my first 5K,” Backus shared. “While coming up Dog Hill on a Sunday afternoon I had the cardiac arrest.” An emergency room nurse came upon him and started giving CPR for the next 20 minutes, as there was an event that prevented the paramedics from getting there quickly. After Jeff arrived at the hospital, he had a double bypass followed by an incredible recovery. Five years later he experienced a second cardiac arrest. Teenage boys found him and called 911, where the operator was able to walk the boys through performing CPR. Jeff was then transported to the hospital in an ambulance where he was shocked 11 times and coded six times in the Emergency Department.
Circumstances like these are what makes learning CPR important. “I’ve become an advocate for learning Hands-Only CPR,” Backus said. “You need to learn it, hopefully you’ll never need it but if you’re ever in that moment, how would you feel if you weren’t able to help?”.
By learning hands only CPR, you could be able to save the life of a family member, friend or stranger.
Backus also encourage individuals to know their numbers like you blood pressure and cholesterol. Being aware of the risk factors in your life can help you make the necessary lifestyle changes.
Signs of a Heart Attack
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms and shoulders
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, other symptoms can include unexplained or unusual tiredness, nausea or vomiting. Women are more likely to experience these symptoms or have other symptoms.
Don’t know your numbers or are you ready to make a change? Contact your primary care provider today, or find one at UofLHealth.org.