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Chicago Leader Wins National Award for Boosting CPR Readiness and Blood Pressure Awareness

Laura Merrick wins American Heart Association's 2025 Leaders of Impact award, raising $380K for CPR training and blood pressure hubs in Chicago to combat cardiac arrests.

This news matters because it addresses a critical public health crisis: cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, with sudden cardiac arrests claiming thousands of lives annually due to lack of immediate intervention. By focusing on community-based solutions like blood pressure monitoring hubs and CPR training, the campaign directly tackles preventable deaths, especially in underserved areas where health disparities are pronounced. For readers, it highlights actionable steps—such as learning CPR or monitoring blood pressure—that can save lives in their own communities, empowering individuals to become part of the solution. The impact extends beyond Chicago, setting a model for nationwide efforts to reduce heart disease fatalities through education and accessible resources.