Stroke and Heart Attack Awareness

The members of the Black Forest AARP Chapter 1100 and their guests experienced a comprehensive discussion about Stroke and Heart Attack emergency responses at the February 14 meeting. Black Forest Fire and Rescue Assistant Fire Chief, and Paramedic, Jim Rebitski, provided the comprehensive and interesting discussion that covered the physiological aspects of a heart attack and a stroke. He also discussed the physical, hereditary, life style, age, and dietary elements that can contribute to an individual being at a high risk for these distresses. He also answered many questions from the audience. His presentation was especially germane to these subjects since annually more people in the U.S. die of heart disease than cancer, and about one-third of the population currently exhibits some kind of cardio-vascular disease.

The Chief stressed that immediate emergency action is required in every case of a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or stroke (ischemic stroke) - due to lack of blood flow or hemorrhagic due to bleeding - or even if a TIA (transient ischemic attack) commonly known as a mini-stroke, is detected or experienced. He also cited that most paramedics in El Paso County now have the capability to measure, record, and phone ahead a person’s vital parameters, such as blood pressure, EKG recording, medication history and observed trauma data, to both major hospital systems in El Paso County. The result is that the doctors and emergency technicians at the hospital can immediately take the patient to the optimum treatment facility in the hospital immediately upon arrival.The Chief also discussed the technical advances in Medical Alert Systems and recommended that senior individuals who live alone or are prone to falling should especially consider acquiring one.  Chief Rebitski concluded the two-hour instruction by discussing the causes and symptoms of heart failure, the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), and demonstrated CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) techniques on a mannequin.

The Chapter’s potluck lunch featured the usual array of delicious and special dishes with a large predominance of special “Valentine” desserts.  The highlight of the business meeting that followed was the presentation of a special Past Presidents lapel pin to the outgoing Chapter President, Charles Karlstrum, by the 2018 President Ray Rozak. The membership was reminded and encouraged to sign up to participate to help at the many upcoming community service events scheduled this summer such as the annual free shredding event on 2 June, two Silver Key activities in March, and four Senior Resource Council Golden Guidance Series events also scheduled for June.  Individuals interested in learning, socializing, and performing community service should contact Ray at 719.495-6767 or visit the chapter web site at