Program seeks to give coaches CPR, AED training

WALDWICK, N.J. — A program is hoping to bring first responder training to as many athletic coaches as possible to prevent players from dying of cardiac arrest while participating in sporting events.

CBS New York reported that the All Heart program was created in memory of Sean Fisher, a 13-year-old who died after collapsing at a football practice due to an undetected heart condition.

“I couldn’t go through the thought of hearing it happen to any other son or parent,” Sean’s dad, Jim, said.

“Sean had just gotten a brand new jersey. He was so excited,” coach Ray Jimenez said. “It was horrific. Not just for me, but for all the kids and parents who were there.”

Sean died nearly 10 years ago, and his parents have been. 

The All Heart program teaches coaches CPR and how to use AEDs.

“All coaches should have this, because the opportunity to save a life is very important,” Players Development Academy director Mike O’Neill said. “Every night after this class, I get a text or an email from a coach, saying, 'Thank you very much.'"

Dr. Nidhi Kumar, a cardiologist, is helping lead the program and said “training a coach in CPR is around $100.”

“It was just about changing the model as to how we respond to these emergencies,” he said. “We can reduce or almost get close to eliminating deaths from sudden cardiac arrest in athletes on the field.”