UW-Superior Celebrates Red Cross Day

Students tried hands-only CPR and learned about AEDs

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Today was all about getting blood pumping and saving lives at UW-Superior!

Community members were invited to celebrate Red Cross Day and learn about CPR. Students and staff tried their hands at doing chest compressions on manikins. Volunteer Brooke Defoe said her father, at the age of 35, passed away after going into cardiac arrest. She hopes today will help save the lives of others’ fathers and loved ones.

“We’re kind of more building confidence so people feel comfortable in helping instead of sitting around being a bystander,” Defoe said. “It increases the chances significantly, it’s getting that heart to remember to pump. That way, if they come to, they come to, if not, at least you’re doing something until help can arrive.”

According to the Red Cross, CPR can double or even triple someone’s chances of survival during cardiac arrest. UWS students also learned about AEDs (automated external defibrillators). They also had to opportunity to write holiday cards for veterans.