Local CPR Instructors Working Together

SPRING HILL - When Julie Stack's son was born 11 years ago, he suffered from a number of heart ailments and required a bypass.

Following successful surgery, her doctor gave her the most important advice of her life.

"You need to know what to do at home with this baby," he told her.

Stack learned how to use a defibrillator. She parlayed her newfound passion for rescue services by spending six years as a firefighter with Pasco County Fire Rescue.

Today, she runs CPR RESQ Training Services along Commercial Way.

To make things better, she has a partner.

Instead of working against each other, the two decided they would share the building and help each other attract as many students as possible.

"Even thought we're seen as competitors, we're working together," said Deehan.

Stack agreed.

"It's a common cause," she said. "We want to get the word out."

Both women know about recent cases involving drownings at home. Often times, those victims are under the supervision of a babysitter.

Had those babysitters known CPR, the children might have survived, Stack said.

Many of their lessons center on CPR for parents and guardians, older siblings and babysitters. Deehan actually teaches a course specifically designed for babysitters.

The former nurse now owns Home Oxygen and Medical Equipment for those at-home patients who require oxygen tanks. She also finds time during the week to teach classes.

Both women have lessons suited for both beginners and advanced learners.

There are 21 classes scheduled throughout July. They range from pet first aid to basic life support (BSL).

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are on sale through the programs. A home model costs about $1,200, Stack said.

Both women offer courses on how to use the device, which can save someone suffering from a severe heart ailment.

Deehan and Stack often are invited to country clubs, civic associations and homeowners groups to host "CPR parties," they said.

The Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, at the facility, which is located behind the Pizza Hut along Commercial Way.

A schedule of classes is available online at www.cprresq.com

Biz at a glance:

Name of biz - CPR RESQ/Face-to-Face CPR

Owners - Julie (and Tim) Stack, Marion Deehan

Type of biz - CPR instruction

Where it is - 2915 Commercial Way, Spring Hill (behind the Pizza Hut)

Get in touch - 352-684-5664 or 727-967-1361

On the Web - www.cprresq.com.