By Emem Ekong, volunteer contributor, American Red Cross North Texas 

Love is in the air. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, we are bombarded with its familiar symbolisms that consist of cupids, chocolate, roses, and Valentine Day cards. Additionally, we are reminded to remember our loved ones and grant them the adoration and love they deserve. Here at the Red Cross, we want you to be a part of our Valentine’s Day story. We want you to help us meet the needs of those that need our care and assistance, by participating in our accessible CPR trainings and blood donation opportunities.  

During this lovely season, individuals are focused on “stopping” the hearts of their valentine. However, the Red Cross has different plans. We want people like you, to save the lives of others by making a heart to continue to beat and lungs to continue to breathe through vital CPR trainings. CPR is a vital life skill to have in order to save someone from a cardiac or breathing emergency. Luckily, the American Red Cross, has diverse ways you can be certified in no time so that you can contribute to spreading love and care to those who need it.  Here are some ways you can be certified:  

• In Person: This training is an in-class, in-person, and hands-on session conducted by a competent CPR trainer.  
• Online: Virtual trainings are for those that are on the go. This training allows individuals to complete the training on their own time. The virtual CPR training ends with an assessment. 
• Simulation Learning: This is a combination of both In-Person and Virtual training. Simulation Learning allows you to form your own schedule and present what you have learned to a certified CPR instructor.  

Sign-up for a class today at www.redcross.org/take-a-class!