World Restart a Heart Day shines spotlight on CPR training and lifesaving action
ALBUQUERQUE, Oct. 7, 2025 — As World Restart a Heart Day approaches on Oct. 16, the American Heart Association is urging communities across New Mexico and the nation to take action by learning CPR and joining the Nation of Lifesavers™ — a bold initiative to double survival rates from cardiac arrest by 2030.
Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States, with nearly three-quarters happening at home. Yet fewer than half of those victims receive CPR from a bystander — a gap that can mean the difference between life and death.
“Cardiac arrest doesn’t discriminate,” said Jill Krogman, a New Mexico survivor who went into sudden cardiac arrest while sleeping 11 years ago. “It can happen to anyone, no matter how healthy you think you are.”
Krogman was revived by paramedics, including retired responder David Weaver, and now advocates for CPR training and heart health awareness. Their story is a powerful reminder of why CPR education is critical.
Another compelling example comes from Ray and Norma Henderson of Albuquerque. In 2018, Ray collapsed at home and stopped breathing. Norma, who had never taken a CPR class, sprang into action and performed chest compressions for 30 minutes — guided only by instinct and a 911 dispatcher. Paramedics used an AED eight times and placed Ray on an ECMO machine in a last-ditch effort to save his life. Against all odds, he survived.
“My students helped train 1,200 additional students in CPR and the use of an AED,” said Ray, a retired teacher and former American Heart Association–New Mexico board member. “Educating people about CPR and quick action is a passion of mine.”
Norma, who now participates in CPR courses with Ray, encourages others to act even if they’re unsure. “You are functioning as their heart. Don’t be afraid,” she said.
The American Heart Association–New Mexico is embedding hands-only CPR training into schools, workplaces and neighborhoods. The campaign includes mass training events, AED grants, and emergency response planning.
“You don’t need a medical degree to save a life — just the courage to act and the knowledge of CPR,” said Sherri Wells, executive director for the American Heart Association–New Mexico. “We’re turning bystanders into heroes.”
The local campaign aims to demonstrate hands-only CPR to 1,000 people by March 2026 and reach 10,000 through AED placement, education and emergency planning. World Restart a Heart Day is also a call to action for workplaces. According to the Association, fewer than half of employees know where to access their workplace AED. CPR training can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.
To learn CPR or get involved in the Nation of Lifesavers, visit www.heart.org/nation-of-lifesavers
Additional resources:
- Bystander CPR | Bystander CPR Infographic (PDF)
- Hands-Only CPR Resources
- Hands-Only CPR vs CPR with Breaths
- Women and CPR
- Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack
- Reducing Disparities for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest – Community Toolkit: English and Spanish versions available
- Take 90 seconds to learn how to save a life at www.heart.org/HandsOnlyCPR.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
