2024 Sioux Falls Go Red for Women: Susan's Story

Susan was born with a congenital heart defect that eventually required her to undergo a mitral valve replacement and the installation of a pacemaker. She was also diagnosed with AFib and received treatments to correct electrical problems in her heart. In 2017 at age 40, Susan suffered a cardiac arrest in her home, and - with the help of the 9-1-1 dispatcher - her husband performed CPR on her for 20 minutes until paramedics arrived and she could be transported via helicopter to the hospital. Susan's story demonstrates how every link in the chain of survival - from early CPR to treatment at the hospital - can contribute to a life saved. She shared her story at our 2024 #SoDakGoRed event.