Tim Russert: Thoughts about CPR

Many people were saddened by Tim Russert’s death this weekend from an apparent heart attack. My first thoughts were as a writer—He was a young man, only 58, and I always enjoyed watching him on Meet the Press. He was respectful, but also critical when other journalists were throwing softballs.

And, of course, my second thoughts were as a writer for the Red Cross. We think a lot about heart attacks here—how common they are, and how to be ready to respond to them with CPR and AEDs. Though I’ve worked here for several months now, this is the first time it’s occurred to me that my mom and dad, both in their 50s, probably don’t know CPR.

Reports say that an intern in Russert’s office began applying CPR almost immediately, but that an AED wasn’t used. I’m so glad that someone nearby was ready to help him. I can’t imagine how it would feel to be there when someone is suffering and not know what to do.
There’s been a lot of buzz about this on the internet. Dr. Douglas Zipes, of the Krannert Institute of Cardiology at Indiana University, emphasized that that "AEDs should be as common as fire extinguishers."

I hope some more people are inspired to get trained in CPR and AEDs because of Russert’s death, and to do so out of respect and care for others. You never know when the health of other amazingly talented people might be in your care.

Visit our website to sign up for classes, or view an online tutorial demonstrating CPR and AED techniques and see video accounts of real stories of lives saved.

-Kristin Claes is a senior writer for the Greater Chicago Red Cross. She writes for the website www.chicagoredcross.org.

Were you affected by storms in the Central U.S.? Let us know you are OK!

Storm Ravaged Residents Urged to Register with Safe and Well!

People in storm ravaged communities across the Central United States are urged to register themselves and their loved ones on the Safe and Well website, to allow family and friends around the country know of their status. Safe and Well is an easy way to assist people seeking to locate those who’ve registered their status during this emergency.

The Red Cross has developed this online tool to help families and individuals notify loved ones that they are safe during an emergency. Letting your family know that you are safe during an emergency can bring great peace of mind.

The Safe and Well website is easy to use:

1. Visit RedCross.org, and click on the Safe and Well link.
2. If you are currently being affected by these disasters, click: “List Myself as Safe and Well”, enter your pre-disaster address and phone number, and select any of the standard message options.
3. If you are concerned about a loved one, click “Search” and enter the person’s name and pre-disaster phone number OR address. If they have registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.
4. If you don’t have internet access, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information. The Red Cross is currently providing disaster relief throughout several states dealing with the onslaught of rain, tornadoes, flooding and other disasters, offering sheltering, feeding, emergency assistance and other support.

Off to Capetown!

One of our volunteers is leaving for Capetown, South Africa this evening. He's going to spend a month there helping the South African Red Cross raise funds to aid 30,000 people in refugee camps in their country-what a cool opportunity! He is going to check in with updates from the field-we'll keep you updated. Here's a link to the South African Red Cross Society web site if you are interested in what they do http://www.redcross.org.za/

This is the Week! CPR and AED Awareness

Learning CPR makes people happy. Seriously. Look at these smiling faces. (Scroll over the notes to see their stories)



We’re right at the beginning of National CPR/AED Awareness week, and you can get to the happy that these women found spot by taking a class with the Red Cross. It really does feel good to know that you’re preparing to help people when they need it most.

To celebrate, if you take a CPR class with the Greater Chicago chapter this week, you’ll receive a free AED training with your class. You can call 1 800 SAFETY or visit our website to register.

When I attended our huge CPR Training Days event this winter (which is what these photos are from), people told me they were motivated to learn CPR for lots of different reasons, but what I heard most often was the phrase: “You never know when you’re going to need it.” Your friends, neighbors and family are your life, and in many ways, CPR and AED is life insurance. It’s assuring yourself and your family that you’ll do your best to take care of them.

That must be why these Red Cross students are so happy.

now THAT's Red Cross Pride!

Barry Cowen, who has been a Red Cross Disaster Volunteer since August 2004, has two Red Cross Tattoos! He got his first Red Cross one after his deployment to Hurricane Wilma, in 2005.

Helping Military Families, Memorial Day and Every Day

It's Memorial Day weekend, and while most of us are getting ready to barbecue with family and friends, many Americans are serving overseas in the Armed Forces. Though Memorial Day is traditionally a day to honor fallen soldiers, it's also a time to think about those men and women who are making sacrifices for us today.

Did you know that the Red Cross helps keep military families connected? Check out our Service to the Armed Forces page. When people have urgent message about births, illnesses or deaths, it's sometimes hard to get them back and forth between soldiers and their loved ones. The Red Cross makes those connections. Watch the video to see how we're helping in Iraq, too.

Flirt for a Cause on May 29th

Spring is in the air! So shake off that cabin fever with The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago and the Junior League of Chicago at Flirting for Disaster on May 29th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m at Dragonfly Mandarin, 832 W. Randolph St. in Chicago.

Cut loose with complimentary Smirnoff cocktails from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m and $5 drink specials from 8 p.m.-9p.m. The fun-filled evening features music, a raffle, complimentary hors d' oeuvres, free treatments courtesy of Thrive Integrative Medical Spa as well as a wine tasting compliments of Gentile Wines showcasing samplings from Graham Beck & Bon Vivant vineyards.

This networking event is geared toward young professionals interested in raising funds and supporting the efforts of the Greater Chicago Red Cross in Chicagoland. To find out more and order tickets visit flirtingfordisaster.com

127th Anniversary

Today we celebrate the 127^th anniversary of the founding of the American Red Cross by Clara Barton in Washington D.C. After serving as a nurse in the Civil War, Clara served with the International Red Cross during the Franco Prussian War in 1870. Inspired by that organization’s efforts, she returned home intent on starting a similar organization in the United States.

After many years of planning the American Red Cross was born on May 21^st 1881. Clara served as the organization's first president and was on hand to assist the relief efforts at many disaster sites including the devastating hurricane that leveled Galveston Texas in 1900. From its modest beginnings, the American Red Cross has gown into a nationwide network of over 700 chapters serving thousands each year. In that time the mission of the Red Cross has always remained the same, to provide relief and recovery to those who need it and to help communities prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters.

Federal Judge Sides With Red Cross

Late Wednesday Federal Judge Jed Rakoff ruled against the Johnson & Johnson company in its suit to stop the American Red Cross from using its emblem and authorizing others to use its emblem in the sale of products related to its mission.
Judge Rakoff squarely held that the Red Cross’s activities “do not violate the criminal prohibition contained in 18 U.S.C. 706. They also do not violate the Red Cross’s congressional charter or the Geneva Convention.”
J&J had claimed the Red Cross was commercializing the emblem but the judge wholly rejected this idea, stating "The fact that the ultimate purpose of these licensing activities is a ‘charitable purpose’ — i.e. to raise funds that A.R.C., a not-for-profit organization, can utilize for its charitable endeavors — only further emphasizes their legitimacy." The money the Red Cross receives from the sale of these products is reinvested in its humanitarian programs and services. To find out more about the case click here

$10 Million to go Towards Earthquake Relief

The American Red Cross has pledged $10 million to aid the survivors of the devastating 7.9 earthquake that struck China's Sichuan province on May 12th. These funds will go toward the preliminary appeal by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which has called for a total of $19.3 million from chapters around the globe. The appeal will support the relief operations through the purchase and distribution of supplies, coordination of relief efforts, and deployment of staff to the affected area.

The American Red Cross will continue to weigh other support options, which may include providing additional financial support, relief supplies or expertise. Given the vast scale of the disaster, an effective action plan and support strategy will take time to fully develop.

You can help those affected by countless crises around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need. Call 1-800-RED CROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the International Response Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation.

Today is World Red Cross Red Crescent Day

Today is World Red Cross Red Crescent Day, and we celebrate the work of the 97 million staff, volunteers and members who assist more than 277 million people worldwide. There are 186 Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the globe, serving in humanitarian roles during natural disasters, helping people prevent health emergencies and connecting people separated by wars and conflicts. This is Henry. He kind of started this whole thing.


This little girl in Switzerland is celebrating Henry Dunant’s 180th birthday—and she joins millions of people around the world who celebrate his dedication to human rights. Dunant founded of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in 1859. Motivated by his experiences during the Battle of Solferino, Henry Dunant advocated for the humane treatment of the sick and wounded during wartime.



The Greater Chicago Red Cross works to support international programs that prevent malaria, inoculate kids against measles and send messages to people torn apart by war. Learn more about how you can help locally.

Myanmar Cyclone

From Red Cross Chat...
As I’m sure most of you have heard, a cyclone made Myanmar landfall on May 2 and has caused catastrophic damage, including a reported 22,000 deaths.
We are staying in close contact with the Myanmar Red Cross and the International Federation, preparing to provide supplies and additional assistance if it’s needed.
Additional updates when will appear here as we receive them.
RELATED: Press Release

The Chicago Red Cross Presents "Flirting For Disaster - Red Orchid"

The month of May means spring is in the air, the perfect time for some flirtatious fun. May is also Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, so come celebrate with the Red Cross and the NAAAP on Wednesday May 14th, 2008 from 6:00p.m.-9:00p.m. at "Flirting For Disaster - Red Orchid". Join some of Chicago’s most philanthropic professionals at the ultra delicious, hip gastro pub English, 444 N. LaSalle in River North .

The event starts with an open bar 6pm-7pm followed by complimentary Smirnoff Vodka, and featured PAMA and Hpnotiq drinks from 7pm-9pm.

Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. For more info and advance registration, call 312-729-6130 or visit www.flirtingfordisaster.com

Red Line Crash-Looking for someone?

April 25
Today there was an incident where a vehicle crashed into the stairwell at a CTA station; news outlets are reporting that several people were injured. Call us at 312-729-6200 if you think your loved one may have been involved in the crash and hospitalized--we'll do our best to help you find them. This is a special number that we activate only for situations where a lot of people are hospitalized.

Story from Fox News Chicago
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6397717&version=13&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.1.1

More info on this program. http://www.chicagoredcross.org/detalle_prensa.asp?id=1443&SN=518&OP=1995&SUOP=1996&IDCapitulo=VF223FBDFD

It's not too late!

You can still run the Chicago Marathon and

help the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago

Are you bummed because you wanted to run the Chicago Marathon but missed the cut off date to register? Well worry no more, because you still have the chance to run, and help a great cause at the same time! The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago is still accepting runners to join its marathon team, Run Red.

The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago first teamed up with the Chicago Marathon in 2001 and since then the Run Red team has raised more than $200,000 for the Greater Chicago Red Cross and its members have logged nearly 200,000 miles in their training. Run Red has developed into one of the most accomplished charitable running teams in Chicago thanks its generous members and their dedication to the Red Cross and its life saving programs.

Membership begins with a $1,250 pledge and for your generosity you’ll receive expert training, team gear and other benefits to go along with that warm, fuzzy feeling you’ll get by knowing that the money you raise will make a real difference in the community, helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters.

As a member of Run Red you’ll receive the following benefits:

• Official CARA membership and marathon training program ($223 Value)
• 1 year subscription to Runner’s World magazine ($20 Value)
• $3 entry to CARA’s Nike Ready To Run 20 Miler and post-race party with Chicago based rock band Underwater People
• Nike Dry Fit technical shirt
• Access to Red Cross booth in Charity Village on Marathon Day
• Private gear check and pre-race snacks
• Personalized runner webpage and fundraising tips
• Official Run Red Team singlet
• Complimentary ticket to the Run Red team breakfast during marathon weekend Complimentary First Aid Kit ($15 Value)
• Complimentary First Aid/CPR training ($70 Value)
• Membership in the Red Cross Auxiliary Society
• Recognition in the Red Cross annual report

To join Run Red and begin pledging, contact Carli Franks at (312)729-6130 or frankscarli@usa.redcross.org.

There’s only limited number of team spots still available so quit procrastinating and join today!

For more information about Team Red Run and other programs offered by the Greater Chicago Red Cross visit chicagoredcross.com

The 41st Anniversary of the Oak Lawn Tornadoes is Today

The 41st Anniversary of the Oak Lawn Tornadoes is Today

Peak Tornado Season is March-May. Are you ready?

CHICAGO- April 21, 2008- Today is the 41st anniversary of the tornadoes that struck Oak Lawn. Recent severe weather, including the tornadoes that hit downtown Atlanta remind us that twisters are a real threat to our area and yes that includes downtown. Would you know what to do if one hit your home, office or school?

The peak time for tornadoes to strike is March through May and the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago provides the following safety to keep you safe when a tornado hits.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit

The first step in preparing for any type of disaster is to assemble a disaster supplies kit, which should include the following items:
A first aid kit and any essential medications.
Special items for infants, the elderly or disabled.
Canned food and a can opener.
At least three gallons of water per person.
Protective clothing, bedding or sleeping bags.
A battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)

Prepare a Home Tornado Plan

Pick a place where your family can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It can be a basement or a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered. If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to get to the lowest floor, so pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information and know the difference between a tornado WATCH and a tornado WARNING:

A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.
A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.
Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by county or parish.

Rascal Flatts Teams Up with the Red Cross for New Video "Every Day"

In a historical first for the organization, American Red Cross disaster relief services is prominently featured in a new Rascal Flatts music video, ‘Every Day’ as one of several vignettes portraying everyday heroes responding to emergency situations. The video will debut on CMT, GAC, Yahoo Online, AOL, MSN and Clearchannel.com (check out the video here) In an instance of art imitating life this video comes at a time when Red Cross disaster relief workers are responding to severe weather emergencies in communities across the nation.

Red Cross featured in ‘Every Day’ music video from Still Feels Good album.“It gives us great pleasure to be able to work with a wonderful organization like the American Red Cross because of the humanitarian service it provides to this
country-and around the world." said Gary LeVox, lead singer of the band.

The video depicts Red Cross disaster relief workers providing comfort and emergency assistance to neighbors in the aftermath of a disaster. This spring the American Red Cross has provided compassionate care to thousands of people affected by disasters such as the February tornadoes that devastated several southern states and flooding throughout the Midwest.

In addition to providing disaster relief, the Red Cross helps people prepare for disasters before they strike. The Red Cross recommends people take three simple actions to “Be Red Cross Ready" for a variety of disasters and other emergencies: 1) Get a kit, 2) Make a plan and 3) Be informed.

Earthquake in Chicago!

Did you feel the shaking this morning?

Did you know what to do?

We've got some great tips on our website for Midwesteners like us. It's not second nature for us to know where to go or what to do when a quake hits. Experts tell us that where an earthquake hits once it may very well hit again so we should get prepared!

Where's the best place to go? A doorway? The bathroom?

See the answers and get more info here.

Feel like sharing?

Are you expecting a tax return from the government? Most of you will probably also get a tax rebate from the economic stimulus package, which means you might even have a few bucks to spare:

What if you could help others with that money, and feel pretty good to boot?

Disaster recovery can be expensive, especially for those who live paycheck to paycheck. Read about the potential your tax rebate has to change lives.

Join the Red Cross at the Inaugral Youth Power Summit!

Join us at the Inaugural Youth Power Summit on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at U.S. Cellular Field from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT. This free, fun-filled and empowering summit is open to all area high school students and is made possible through a partnership between the Red Cross and the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority (ISFA), the developer, owner and operator of U.S. Cellular Field.

A unique leadership experience, the Red Cross Youth Power Summit is a great chance for young local leaders in the Chicago area to interact with one another and learn the valuable skills necessary for effective community involvement. The Summit features a number of fun and engaging activities, including team building exercises and service project demonstrations. The summit will be held at U.S. Cellular Field’s Conference and Learning Center.

To register for the Inaugural Youth Power Summit please contact the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago at (312) 729-6132 or visit http://www.chicagoredcross.org/. The event is open to all interested high school students but space is limited and registration will be first come, first serve. Interested students are encouraged to sign up soon to reserve a spot.