THE HEARTBEAT OF SAGECREEK: WHY YOUR HANDS COULD BE THE ULTIMATE LIFESAVER

Written By Sarah Gingera, Athletic Therapist

The Heartbeat of Sage Creek: Why Your Hands Could Be the Ultimate Life Saver 

It was a Sunday evening like any other at our Women’s bootcamp class here at Spire Physiotherapy. The music was loud, the energy was high, and the community was doing what we do best, moving together! But in an instant, the rhythm changed. A woman collapsed. The music stopped. The room went silent.

As an Athletic Therapist at Spire Physiotherapy, I spend my days helping people recover from injuries and return to the activities they love. I’m trained for emergencies, but nothing prepares you for the gravity of that moment quite like the real thing. I realized then that she wasn't breathing. She didn't have a pulse.

In those seconds, my training took over. I began CPR, and my coworker thankfully knew exactly where the building's Automated External Defibrillator (AED) was located. We applied the pads, the machine analyzed her heart, and it delivered several shocks. By the time the paramedics arrived, she was breathing again.

That woman is a mother, a neighbor, and a friend. She is alive today because of two things: immediate action and access to an AED.

Why "Waiting for the Pros" Isn't Enough:

Many people think, "I'll just call 911 and wait." I cannot thank our Winnipeg emergency responders enough, they are absolutely incredible! However, every second counts during cardiac arrest.

The 10% Rule: For every minute that passes without CPR or defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by about 10%. The Power of the AED: An AED is a "smart" device. You don't need to be a doctor to use one; the machine literally speaks to you and tells you exactly what to do. It will only shock if it detects a specific heart rhythm that needs it.

Where to Find an AED in Sage Creek?

Knowing where the closest "life-box" is can save you precious minutes. In our neighborhood, you can find AEDs at these key locations:

  • Sage Creek School: Located near the gym/main office area.

  • Sage Creek Medical Centre: Readily available for clinical and community emergencies.

  • Local Fitness Hubs: Many of the boutique gyms (Orange Theory Fitness and 9Round) 

  • Spire Physiotherapy: We are located at 103-115 Sage Creek Blvd, and our team is always ready to assist in a crisis.

Empower Yourself: Where to Get Trained in Winnipeg:

You don’t need a degree in healthcare to save a life. You just need a few hours of training to gain the confidence to act. If you live in or around Winnipeg, here are the well known places to get certified:

  1. Winnipeg First Aid: They offer frequent, affordable CSA-approved courses at their training center on Osborne St.

  2. St. John Ambulance: A gold standard for training, located on Edmondson St, offering everything from Basic to Standard First Aid.

  3. The Canadian Red Cross: Offers blended learning options (half online, half in-person) which are great for busy Sage Creek parents and professionals.

  4. Safety Services Manitoba: Provides daily training sessions in partnership with St. John Ambulance.

A Final Thought from the Clinic:

At Spire Physiotherapy, our goal is to keep our community moving, healthy, and resilient. But resilience isn't just about strong muscles or flexible joints, it's about being prepared for the unexpected. I challenge everyone in Sage Creek to sign up for a First Aid and CPR/AED course this year. Whether you’re a coach, a parent, or just someone who enjoys a walk around our neighborhood, your hands could be the reason someone else gets to go home to their family.

Let's keep the heart of Sage Creek beating together!

Click here to view Sheryl’s story on our instagram

Sources: 

First Aid Training & Certification Providers:

Community & AED Resources: 

Medical Statistics & Guidelines: 

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THE HEARTBEAT OF SAGECREEK: WHY YOUR HANDS COULD BE THE ULTIMATE LIFESAVER
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It was a Sunday evening like any other at our Women’s bootcamp class here at Spire Physiotherapy. The music was loud, the energy was high, and the community was doing what we do best, moving together! But in an instant, the rhythm changed. A woman collapsed. The music stopped. The room went silent. 

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Sarah Gingera, Athletic Therapist
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