The sudden cardiac arrest that occurred on nationally televised Monday Night Football was hard to watch and was clearly difficult for the announcers to talk about.  Collectively we are wishing the best for Damar through this extremely difficult medical situation. 

Having taken part in 3 similar events myself during my career, I can tell you these events are emotionally draining and profoundly affect those involved.  Watching a young athletic individual with superior fitness fall victim to this type of cardiac issue does not compute to many.

I have heard so many people discuss how this has never been seen before which compels me to say that although rare, these events do occur at all levels of sport.  I admit watching CPR on national television is unusual but it is occurring frequently in our communities. Cardiac arrest in young athletes is happening at all age levels. It is important to say that having athletic trainers at these events is critical and at many schools these athletic training services are not available.  We should do our best to provide CPR trained athletic training services with access to an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) at all sporting events.  Lives can be saved.  Unfortunately, these events will continue to occur so let’s use this opportunity of increased awareness to be better prepared for all athletes.