From 8th graders to legislators, teaching CPR

JUNEAU—The Matanuska-Susitna Borough has taken a life-saving effort from the classroom to the capital. Last week Borough Paramedic Kara Boothby traveled with Jim Foster, President of the Loren Marshall Foundation, to teach legislators “hands only CPR.”

MAT-SU responders joined the Big Wild Heart of Alaska initiative this winter when they began teaching 8th graders in Houston. Last week Boothby, with Central MAT-SU Fire Dept., traveled with Jim Foster, President of the Loren Marshall Foundation, to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation to legislators and their staff.

They trained: 26 representatives, six senators, 78 staff for a total of 110 people.

The training uses the American Heart Association’s Friends and Family CPR Anytime kit.

"Rep. Wilson set up a competition for most trained between the Alaska House and Senate. The House won," Boothby said.

"We are very pleased with the outcome. The support and leadership demonstrated by our elected officials' participation is setting an example for all citizens to follow," Boothby said.