On February 1, we screened over 400 students during the first National Youth Heart Screening Day! The Foundation was one of 25 organizations from across the US that participated in this inaugural event to raise awareness of the importance of these screenings. It was an incredibly impactful day.
We had 48 medical providers from UPMC Cardiovascular Institute, 47 volunteers (non-medical), and our entire staff on hand. We had 5 EKG machines, 4 Echo machines, 3 Auscultation stations, and 20 CPR Manikins & AED Trainers in use throughout the entire event.
Special thank you to our sponsors: UPMC Central Pa., UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, S&T Bank, Renewal by Andersen of Central Pennsylvania, and Bristol Myers Squibb.
Hidden heart conditions can affect young lives without warning, but thanks to this initiative, many families now have peace of mind. Early detection saves lives. “UPMC Cardiovascular Institute continues to support the Peyton Walker Foundation and their screening plus CPR training events. It is imperative that we not only make sure that our kids are safe, but that we are also prepared for the unexpected,” says Michael D. Bosak, M.D. FACC, FSCAI, UPMC PHCVI.
In honor of National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day, Hershey’s Ice Cream provided ice cream for the first 75 students who completed their screening. Free ice cream coupons were also handed out to the first 100+ participants.
The afternoon featured a photo opportunity with AHL Hershey Bears Hockey player Jake Massie, bringing smiles to many faces! Lunch and sweet treats were provided by Vito’s Pizza & Grill and Nothing Bundt Cakes to keep the volunteers energized.
Until heart screenings become a standard of care, we will keep providing them. Stay tuned for more screenings planned later this year!