It was one of the most shocking scenes in television history. During a Monday Night Football game on January 2, 2023, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field after making a tackle. Hamlin heart stopped, and America watched as paramedics frantically tried to save his life.
Fortunately, the medical personnel were successful. Hamlin made a full recovery and is still playing football for the Bills today.
The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that approximately 2,000 people under the age of 25 die from sudden cardiac arrest in the U.S. each year, though this figure includes non-athletes as well. Sudden cardiac death is the most common medical cause of death in athletes, accounting for 7 5 % of fatalities during sports or exercise.
Alarmed by these statistics, one local businesswoman has dedicated her life to doing something about it through the It Takes Heart Foundation.
IT TAKES HEART is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It was founded by Registered Cardiovascular Sonographer Celena Allen in 2020. She has one goal: to combat sudden cardiac death in athletes through on-site and in-depth heart screenings and integrated health programs.
“We offer this service to all athletes in South Carolina and our surrounding states by providing programs such as education, prevention, support, and advocacy,” Celena said. “We are stationed in Columbia, SC, however we service outside of this area due to our
It Takes Heart Foundation
portable capabilities. We strive to potentially save a life with early detection of heart abnormalities prior to physical activities.”
To fund these services, It Takes Heart relies on the support of generous individuals and businesses across the state of South Carolina. Celena has launched a fundraising campaign to fund these potentially life-saving services.
“We would be most grateful if you would consider providing a donation in one of the following Business categories,” Celena says. Sponsorships include:
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Gold – $100-249.00
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Platinum – $250-499.99
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Diamond – $500-999.00
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Rose Gold – $1000-4999.00
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Rub y- $5000.00+
“An individual may also donate to sponsor an athlete(s) at the rate of $40 per athlete,” she continued. “You can donate by using our website at ittakesheartfound. org or sending a check or money order (make checks payable to It Takes Heart Foundation). Your support is critical to the completion of our groundbreaking projects, and we will gladly keep you updated regarding our progress should you wish.”
