Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the US. In fact, the sudden loss of all heart activity causes more than 356,000 deaths, including 23,000 in young people under the age of 18, according to the American Heart Association.

Matt Siebert, a volunteer with the American Heart Association of Central Virginia, sat down with Scripps News Richmond to share information that could save lives during Sudden Cardiac Arrest Month.

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Siebert said the issue is something close to his heart. In seventh grade, he said he was involved in a gym accident in which a basketball hit his chest so hard it caused his heart to stop.

He was given CPR and revived. Since that experience, Siebert has dedicated his life to informing people about life-saving measures in hopes that others might experience the joy of a second chance at life.

There are important distinctions between sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack.
Siebert said cardiac arrest means the heart will suddenly stop or stop altogether. A heart attack occurs when there is an injury to the heart. Experts note that heart attacks often prevent sudden cardiac arrest, which is why the timing of getting help is critical.

Automated external defibrillators are one lifesaving step that can be used. Siebert said it’s critical that people don’t be shy and take steps to use them immediately during an emergency.

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The American Heart Association goes into communities to teach people how to use them and how to do CPR. They also have one guide at home where people can learn for themselves.

AEDs are located in many public areas from grocery stores, shopping malls, parks, schools and workplaces.

“Early CPR response and action to alert EMS leads to a much better outcome,” Siebert said.

This fall, Scripps News Richmond is partnering with the American Heart Association to spread tips and stories that could help save lives. This partnership is through the Impact Leaders nomination of Scripps News Richmond reporter Maggi Marshall. She works with a group of leaders who shine a light on the importance of heart health. You can donate Here to help her be named a 2024 Central Virginia Leader of Impact.

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This story was originally published by Maggi Marshall at Scripps News Richmond.