Our 2015-16 Tennessee Advocacy Committee is composed of individuals from across the state with different occupations, who have a great interest in advocating for policy change for heart-health issues. Today, we'd like you to meet Dr. Katherine Y. Brown of Nashville, founder of Learn CPR America.
How long have you been a volunteer with the American Heart Association and in what capacity? 25 years! During this time, some of my volunteer roles include: State Advocacy Chairperson, Go Red For Women, CPR Instructor, Regional Faculty, National Speaker, Empowered To Serve, Facilitated National CPR Webinar, Health Fair Volunteer, Heart Walk Speaker, Speaker on Stroke Awareness.
I also have severed as an American Heart Association Minority Health Council Member, 2010 Speaker for Scientific Sessions, Health Fair Volunteer, Gospel Tour Committee and State Advocacy Co Chair.
Who or what inspires you to help and volunteer your time to the work of the American Heart Association? As a survivor and medical professional, I am impressed by the work of the American Heart Association in my personal and professional life. The American Heart Association's resources change lives on a daily basis.
What heart-healthy issue is most important to you and why? As a national CPR Ambassador I am passionate about CPR education. Having used CPR in the real world, I believe that if more people learn CPR, more lives can be saved. I am committed to making a difference.
What are two ways you keep yourself healthy? Exercise daily, eat heart healthy and practice meditation and relaxation.
How is your community healthy that makes you proud? Nashville is committed to being a healthy place to work and play. There are many family-friendly, free resources including free green ways, walking paths, and also bike programs that make being healthy an achievable lifestyle.
How do you stay updated on current public policies in your state? You're the Cure! Serving as chair of the American Heart Association's State Advocacy Committee and working with the American Heart Association. Denise, our Government Relations Director, is amazing!
If you could help advocate for one change in your state, what would it be and why? More funding for CPR education. Sometimes funding is a barrier to CPR education and this should not be the case. Everyone should have access to life-saving skills.
Do you have a favorite AHA/ASA event you annually attend?
What is your motivation to participate? I have two - CPR week and Go Red For Women! I love teaching CPR and I also love seeing women learn ways to become heart healthy.
Have you attended a state or federal lobby day on behalf of the American Heart Association? If so, please briefly explain your experience. A wealth of resources and information that everyone should be involved with.
What have you learned in your time being a You’re the Cure advocate? To have a voice in advocacy, we must work together to increase active participation in the You're the Cure network.
Why would you tell a friend or family member to join You’re the Cure? It's imperative that we are active, informed, and knowledgeable in legislation that impacts us, our families, and the communities that we live in. It's not enough to talk about concerns; we must be active and engaged.
Tell us one unique thing about yourself. I have been an American Heart Association volunteer since age 16.
Learn, enjoy and save life. refresh your knowledge and learn more about CPR AED.
Source: yourethecure.org