Thinking of volunteering? Consider becoming a “Heart Runner” to save lives

This program, known as “hjerteløbers” in Danish, is run by TrygFonden for volunteers to provide vital first aid, primarily responding to cardiac arrests outside hospitals. In Denmark, around 5,000 people suffer heart attacks every year. Last year, 699 Danes survived cardiac arrests in public or at home thanks to hjerteløbers who arrived before paramedics. There are currently 155,000 hjerteløbers, and Minister of Health Sophie Løhde has encouraged more sign-ups. However, nurse and PhD student Astrid Rolin Kragh spoke to DR and warned that it’s not for the faint-hearted. She emphasizes that there is a need to reassure volunteers that they’ve done the right thing because witnessing a family in crisis can be emotionally challenging.