American Heart Association

This year I have once again set out on a mission that is very near and dear to my heart and it is now only two weeks away. As many of you might not be aware, my brother passed away 20 years ago from a congenital heart defect. I can not believe that he has been away from us for so long but he remains close in my heart. I also lost my grandfather just a few short years ago. He was actually one of the first persons to receive the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) units. At that time, they had not even received FDA approval yet. This unit is an electronic device that constantly monitors your heart rate and rhythm. When it detects a very fast, abnormal heart rhythm, it delivers energy to the heart muscle. This causes the heart to beat in a normal rhythm again. It gave him another few years of life.

On September 28, 2008, I will be participating in the 16th Annual American Heart Walk in Danville, CA . I have set a personal goal to raise $1000 for the American Heart Association and need your help to reach my donation goal. We are raising critical dollars for heart disease and stroke research and education. Your donation is tax deductible!!!

You can help me reach my goal by sending a donation directly to me, or by making a donation online. The link to make an online donation is: http://heartwalk.kintera.org/eastbayca/kimberyconnors .
The American Heart Association's online fundraising website has a minimum donation amount of $25.00. If you prefer to donate less, you can do so by sending a check directly to me. If you are unable to donate this year, please come out and walk with me. Just sign-up to register to be a part of my team. The walk is a 5K and begins at 8:30am at the Danville Livery.

Unfortunately, many of our youth are becoming over weight, eating poorly, not exercising, etc. and these dollars will eventually assist in their well being. Hopefully they decide to make some life changes along the way but until then, the research and education components are important!

Your donation will help fight our nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers—heart disease and stroke as well as helping me to remember two people that I loved very dearly. You are making a difference. Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
Kim

The role of a Certified Athletic Trainer

When am I available? I am available on campus every day for practice and game coverage. Should I not be there to service your injury needs, I do have a replacement that will come in to cover the days events. In rare instances there may not be coverage available. As we strive to maintain consistent care, coaches will be notified well in advance of such an occurrence. My hours are posted inside the window each week so that the athletes know when I am available to assist with their needs.

Where am I located? You can find me in P-40. It is the last portable as you head out to the football field.

So what it is that I do when I am on campus? As a Certified Athletic Trainer, I specialize in the prevention, recognition, management and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Athletic Trainers are much different than personal trainers! A personal trainer works with individuals to monitor and/or change exercise habits. Athletic Trainers must hold at least a bachelor's degree, pass a written, oral, and written simulation exam, must abide by the National Organizations standards and guidelines, as well as keep abreast with the ever changing medical field by participating in continuing education.

Welcome Back!

Another great year has begun. As we begin this year I am looking forward to meeting all the new parents of our freshman athletes, new athletes, and seeing those of you who I have not seen since your sport ended. There are a lot of exciting things happening at Granada this year. Get ready... because here we go!!!