Sometimes it takes a life-threatening emergency to realize how important it is to have American Red Cross first aid and CPR training. Just ask Paul Rebecchi.

As an electrician, it started out to be a typical workday for Rebecchi. However, that changed shortly when he was assigned to work on a high voltage switch. Due to technical difficulties, Rebecchi was electrocuted, causing him to lose consciousness. “I don't remember what happened. I was told one of my co-workers performed CPR and was able to resuscitate me.” Needless to say, Rebecchi was very thankful his co-worker knew CPR and now realizes how important it is to have Red Cross training.

Since the incident, Rebecchi wants to find a way to give back and show how thankful he is that CPR saved his life. His plan? He wants to become an American Red Cross instructor and teach members of the Electrical Workers Union.  By becoming an instructor, Rebecchi will be able to teach fellow electricians and apprentices CPR and first aid so they will be prepared to take appropriate action if an emergency strikes.

Rebecchi has already become certified by taking the American Red Cross course and is ready to take action if needed.  However, numerous steps were involved for Rebecchi to follow his plan.  First, he enrolled in the Red Cross First Aid and CPR training course so he would be able to recognize and respond in emergencies. After the layperson course completion, he signed up for American Red Cross First Aid, CPR and AED instructor training, which allows him to teach others to respond in emergencies. So far, Rebecchi is pleased with how his plans are going; he is already teaching and instructing CPR and first aid classes. “Other groups have approached me as well to teach classes for them.” 

Even off the job, Rebecchi uses his training to think about his family’s safety. Rebecchi has been married for two years, is the father of two daughters and is thankful for their support. Aside from his family, he likes to help others as well; for him, it is a way to pay back those who helped him and for appreciating the chance that he was given because of the unfortunate incident.

When looking back on his experience, Rebecchi says, “Life is short. You have to make the most of it while you can.” Now with Rebecchi’s help, the Red Cross is able to show others the importance of preparing for any obstacles life may bring.