Calvary Baptist takes part in cardiac arrest rescue program

“Our congregation is committed to protecting the health of our members, and Strive to Revive helps us take this commitment to the next level,” said the Rev. Avery Brown, church pastor. “With more than 50-75 people attending our church each week, we have the potential to save lives and make a real difference in our community.”

Strive to Revive kicked off in Charlotte in 2010 by awarding 20 organizations with AEDs and CPR training. BCBSNC, the North Carolina Council of Churches, the American Red Cross and Carney are committed to expanding the program statewide by distributing AEDs and providing CPR training to places of worship across North Carolina with the goal of reaching all 100 counties.

“Imagine how scary it would be to stand by and watch a loved one go into cardiac arrest because you didn’t know CPR,” said Brad Wilson, BCBSNC president and CEO. “We want North Carolinians to feel prepared to react in a situation like this. Strive to Revive gives our communities the tools and training they need to take action in case of a cardiac emergency.”

Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, claiming up to 450,000 lives each year. Strive to Revive focuses on organizations that attract large populations of individuals affected by heart disease, cardiac arrest and other health risk factors.

To learn more about Strive to Revive, visit www.healthandwholeness.org/strive-to-revive.