The American Heart Association has launched the Nation of Lifesavers initiative, featuring five compelling real-life CPR stories to kick off CPR & AED Awareness Week. The initiative aims to double the sudden cardiac arrest survival rate by 2030, addressing the alarming statistic that 9 out of 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die, often because they do not receive immediate CPR more than half of the time.
The five survivors and rescuers, known as the inaugural Nation of Lifesavers Class, will share their personal stories over a one-year term through traditional and digital media, advocate for public policies that improve the chain of survival, and lead volunteer CPR training opportunities. These stories were selected from dozens of videos submitted by real survivors and everyday rescuers across the country.
“Nearly 2 out of 3 people believe only those with special training should perform CPR, a mistaken belief that costs lives,” said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and senior vice president of women’s health and executive director of the Katz Institute for Women’s Health of Northwell Health in New York City. “To kick off CPR & AED Awareness Week, the American Heart Association is highlighting these powerful stories and working to change the idea of CPR as a medical skill to a shared human responsibility. Everyone should know that the power to save a life is in your hands.”
The 2026 members include Philicia Baugh, who performed chest compressions on a loved one during a family trip; Kristen Walenga, whose children, including 15-year-old Eddie who learned CPR in school, saved her life; Matthew Lynch, who performed CPR on an unresponsive driver and passenger during his commute; Edward Marsh, who was saved by strangers and a friend on the dance floor; and Wallis Marsh, who used CPR skills learned after his own heart attack to save his friend, former NFL player Jeff Tupper.
Immediate CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) use can double or triple a person's chance of surviving cardiac arrest, yet less than half of victims receive help from bystanders. Medical credentials are not required; anyone can perform Hands-Only CPR by calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute, similar to the tempo of the Bee Gees' “Stayin’ Alive.”
The Nation of Lifesavers initiative is committed to turning bystanders into lifesavers, with a long-term goal that anyone, anywhere, is prepared to perform CPR. The Association encourages the public to learn CPR and submit their own stories. Walgreens is a proud national sponsor of the initiative.
This initiative matters for business and technology leaders as it highlights the critical role of workplace training and public health preparedness. Companies can reduce risks and save lives by implementing CPR training programs, aligning with the Association's goal to ensure more people are equipped to act in emergencies. The stories underscore that with awareness and confidence, anyone can be a lifesaver.
