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Discovering Heart Health: Why Free Screenings Matter in San Jose

Update Heart Health Takes Center Stage at Saratoga High In a commendable effort aimed at promoting awareness for youth cardiac health, Saratoga High School hosted a significant event on National Youth Heart Screening Day. The gathering, organized by the Kyle J. Taylor Foundation alongside 22 other nonprofits, provided essential heart screenings to students and community members. The event, which took place on February 7, focused on educating participants about the importance of cardiac health and early detection of potential heart issues. A Mission Rooted in Tragedy Jennifer Sarmento, the co-founder of the Kyle J. Taylor Foundation, established this initiative to honor her son, Kyle, who tragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest in 2018. Sarmento’s experience revealed a startling statistic: one in 300 children have undiagnosed heart conditions that could lead to sudden cardiac arrest. "We realized that if we didn’t know, there were many other families that didn’t know either," she said. Since its inception, the foundation has screened over 12,000 children, identifying 115 individuals with serious cardiac issues, such as the rare Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Empowering the Community Through Education The event featured five interactive stations manned by medical volunteers, including healthcare professionals and UC Berkeley students from the Saving Hearts Foundation. Attendees completed health assessments and learned key life-saving skills, such as hands-only CPR. Volunteers explained the vital differences between sudden cardiac arrest and heart attacks, distinguishing the symptoms and enhancing public understanding. With hands-on demos and direct interaction, participants were empowered to potentially save lives. Building a Healthier Future Through initiatives like this one, the Kyle J. Taylor Foundation aims to change the landscape of heart health education among the youth. As Sarmento aptly stated, “Heart issues in children are much more common than people realize.” By increasing awareness and providing preventative measures, the foundation not only honors Kyle's legacy but also strives to prevent future tragedies. A Call to Action for the Community The Saratoga High event served as a reminder of the crucial need for heart screenings among youth. With the alarming prevalence of undetected cardiac issues, it’s imperative for parents and guardians in the San Jose area to take proactive steps: schedule regular screenings for their children and stay informed about heart health. It’s time for our community to come together and safeguard our future generations' health.