Curtis LeMair Legacy Foundation

Go do good things.

About us

The Curtis LeMair Legacy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making a difference, changing student-athletes lives, and raising awareness about preventable death caused by
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

  • SCA is the #1 killer of student athletes

    Journal of Athletic Training

  • SCA is the leading cause of death on school campuses

    American School & University

  • More than 90% of SCA victims die

    SCA Aware

Curtis LeMair Legacy Foundation

Curty’s first symptom was his last symptom.


Curtis was a seemingly healthy 18-year-old wrestler in his first year at Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota.  He was known for his kind, generous spirit, thoughtfulness, strong athletic ability, and love for the outdoors.

On October 17, 2018, Curtis passed away in his sleep from a previously undiagnosed heart defect.

IMG_2287.png

Camp Curty

A once-in-a-lifetime wrestling camp led by

Olympians, top coaches, and expert teachers.

What is

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating.

SCA affects people of all ages, even teens and children who appear healthy.

When people experience SCA, they may gasp or share as if they are having a seizure. SCA leads to death in minutes if the person does not receive help right away.

What are the warning signs?

1. Fainting or seizure during or after physical activity, emotional distress, being startled, or unexplained
2. Chest pain or discomfort during or after physical activity
3. Racing heartbeat, especially at rest
4. Unusual shortness of breath
5. Dizziness or lightheadedness during or after physical activity
6. Unusual fatigue or tiredness

What are the family risk factors?

  • Family history of heart disease

  • Family history of unexpected death during physical activity or seizure

  • The unexplained death of a seemingly healthy family member under age 50

  • Unexplained near-drowning or car accident of a family member

Surviving SCA depends on the

actions of the people nearby:

  • If a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 911.

  • Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.

  • Use an AED to restart the heart.

Your generosity allows us to continue our mission of making a difference, changing the lives of student-athletes, and raising awareness about preventable death caused by Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Thank you for your support.

Join our fight.