On June 11th, Leif Clark, an American Red Cross trained first responder, was on a work site in Greenville, South Carolina and was alerted that a 56-year-old man had gone into cardiac arrest while operating a forklift. Leif took swift action, quickly assessing the man and administering CPR. “We administered CPR/AED for about eight minutes until EMS arrived,” said Leif.  

Due to Leif’s lifesaving actions, the man survived and is expected to make a full recovery. The American Red Cross was honored to present Leif with the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders in Greenville on December 14th. This award recognizes the extraordinary efforts of Red Cross-trained Professional Responders using their lifesaving skills.  

“Because he knew what to do, and they knew what to do quickly, they were able to increase the chances of this person surviving – and he did survive,” said Jamie Raichel, Executive Director of the Red Cross of South Carolina Upstate Chapter who presented Leif with the prestigious award. 

In addition, Leif Clark’s American Red Cross skills instructor, Scott Worcester, was honored with the American Red Cross Instructor Award for teaching students, like Leif, essential lifesaving skills.   

“Leif’s heroic actions shined a bright light on the American Red Cross. As someone involved in teaching lifesaving skills, it fills me with immense pride to see the real-world impact of this training,” said Scott. 

More than 4.6 million people turn to the Red Cross, the trusted training provider for First Aid, CPR, and more, every year to gain lifesaving skills.  

“In crisis, often times, people can’t think straight, they don’t know which steps to take, they forget. Training helps to keep that all in order and gives you an idea of what you’re supposed to do and how you’re supposed to do it. Everything works better when you’re trained,” said Leif. “It makes me feel really good that this person will go on to live his life, and it is because of this CPR and first aid training. Everyone should take first aid and CPR training.” 

Each year, more than 300,000 people die of sudden cardiac arrest in the United States. CPR certification takes just a few short hours but can help add years to someone's life.  

“Leif’s actions saved a life – a direct testament to the effort, effectiveness, and importance of the training offered by the Red Cross,” said Scott. “This organization not only teaches practical skills, but also a sense of duty and preparedness, empowering them to act in critical moments. Your actions are a powerful reminder of the difference each of us can make.” 

Trust the Red Cross to deliver unmatched lifesaving training that will give you the confidence and skills to act when moments matter. Go to www.redcross.org/take-a-class to learn lifesaving skills with the American Red Cross.