BOSTON — Representatives from three places of worship in Boston were gifted AED’s, blood pressure monitors, and lessons in CPR as a part of an American Heart Association initiative.
This is the association’s second round of its “Have Faith in Heart” initiative. It was formed to equip places of worship with lifesaving measures and the skills to use them in the case of an emergency.
Stephanie Voltaire, director of community impact at the American Heart Association, works in the greater Boston area teaching vital skills for community centers.
“You just never know when this can happen,” she said Thursday.
She asked, “Who’s calling 911? Who’s starting CPR? Who’s grabbing the AED? What are we doing while we’re waiting for 911?”
She gave a presentation about cardiac events and ways to be prepared for them Thursday night to a group at the Faithful Church. Representatives from the three places of worship were taught how to use AED’s, perform CPR, and establish an emergency plan before a potential cardiac event.
Pastor Audi Lynch and his community at the Faithful Church in Dorchester have been dealing with tragedy this summer.
Earlier this month, their head deacon passed away from a massive heart attack.
“Even though we are people of faith, I also think it’s important to have wisdom,” he said. “I’m very grateful that his legacy lives on even in this moment.”
The American Heart Association said they lead the initiative funded by United Healthcare.
State representative Chris Worrell represents the Dorchester community.
“Black and brown people are disproportionately battling with heart disease, cholesterol, and so many different hypertensions,” he said Thursday night. “[Places of worship] continue to save lives spiritually, and we want to keep them equipped so they save lives physically as well.”
Worrell said he’s working with state partners and leaders to keep more communities prepared.
The American Heart Association said all community and faith leaders should be trained in CPR.
Training in CPR and more can be found at American Heart Association CPR and First Aid
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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