Deerfield CPR Training Event To Honor Rescuers, Raise Awareness

DEERFIELD, IL — February is American Heart Month. Because of the actions of two North Shore residents last year, another local resident will be able to celebrate it.

The two men will be recognized during a bystander CPR/AED course 10 a.m. Sunday at Rochelle Zell Jewish High School, 1095 Lake Cook Road. The event, which is scheduled to go until 12:30 p.m. is being hosted by NorthShore University HealthSystem and the Deerfield Bannockburn Fire Department.

Attendees will learn about the rescue, bystander CPR and how to use an AED, and participate in hands-on practice with mannequins and AED training devices. This is not a CPR certification event.

In October 2022, a Glenbrook High School District 225 teacher collapsed while playing paddle ball at the Tennaqua Swim and Racquet Club in Deerfield, according to a representative from NorthShore University HealthSystem. When the incident occurred, two men came to the rescue, with one performing CPR while the other used an automated external defibrillator to revive the fallen player on the court. The player was then rushed to NorthShore Highland Park Hospital for a cardiac procedure.

Amazingly, the patient was back in the classroom one week later. NorthShore points out that neither of the men who performed the life-saving measures are doctors. All three men will be in attendance at Sunday's event, along with Deerfield Bannockburn Fire Chief Ian Kazian and NorthShore representatives.

According to organizers, the event aims to "raise awareness about the power of bystander CPR and empower community members with the skills to respond confidently to a cardiac arrest emergency."

Refreshments will be provided and families are invited to attend. Registration can be done here.