The Nick of Time Foundation, East Pierce Fire and Rescue, Franciscan Health and other healthcare professionals will provide free heart screening to student athletes at Bonney Lake High School on March 28.

The event is in memory of 2012 Bonney Lake graduate, Madison Murphy, who died of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) at the age of 19.

SCA is the leading cause of sudden death in young athletes, according to the American Heart Association. Sudden death in people under age 35 is rare, but when it does occur, various heart conditions are often to blame. The most common cause is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an abnormal growth of heart muscle fibers. Competition and athletic training can increase the risk.

Nick of Time’s screening program aims to reduce sudden cardiac death through early detection, appropriate medical interventions and activity modification. The foundation also hopes they will raise awareness and educate schools and communities about sudden cardiac arrest, warning symptoms, and the value of heart screening for children and adults.

Nick of Time representatives and volunteers from Franciscan Health will work with registered students to conduct heart health surveys. A physical exam, family history intake and discussion regarding signs and symptoms will take place. East Pierce emergency medical personel will assist with initial intake screenings, vital signs and 12-lead echocardiograms for those with a positive finding on history. Each screening takes approximately 30 minutes and includes CPR and automated external defibrillator training.

To participate, students must submit completed forms to Cheryl Duckett in the main office. Appointments are available for any youth 14 to 24 years old, regardless of enrollment status. There are 300 openings available, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Email Jane Mack at jane_mack@sumnersd.org for more information, or to schedule an appointment.

Students can pick up the health history packet from Bonney Lake High School or download one online. A  heart survey must be completed prior to the screening and include an adult permission signature for those students under the age of 18. Students cannot be screened without signed forms.

The Nick of Time Foundation was created in memory of Nick Varrenti, a multi-sport athlete who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and died at the age of 16.