Project: Saving Student Athletes

Alessa Atallah took her medical interest and turned it into a High Awards project bringing awareness and attention to the number one cause of death for high school student athletes—cardiac complications.

“There is a major issue of undiagnosed cardiac issues in high school students,” Alessa said. “Students athletes with unknown heart conditions are at a high risk for sudden cardiac arrest.”  

From the heart

Realizing that prevention is the key, Alessa’s main objective was to educate students and adults about the importance of knowing the warning signs of heart conditions and advocating for EKG screening.

“Getting proactive screenings is so important in preventing medical emergencies,” she learned.

Alessa decided to share her message where it would have the greatest impact.

She developed a website and designed an informative pamphlet which she distributed in doctor offices across the area. She gave a presentation at a school parent’s sports night.

Mostly, she spoke directly to students, hundreds of students, giving them information on things to watch out for when playing sports and what to do if an emergency does happen.

Gold lessons

Working with multiple Catholic high schools strengthened Alessa’s communication and leadership skills and taught her how to organize a health-focused campaign effectively.

“I experienced the power of collaboration in spreading awareness on a large scale,” she says proudly.

“I also gained insight into the importance of proactive screenings in preventing medical emergencies, reinforcing how education and advocacy can save lives.”

Alessa graduated from Notre Dame Preparatory School. She was a member of Troop 70738. She’s on her way to studying medicine at the University of Notre Dame.  

Find out more

Alessa chats about her Gold Award journey on our YouTube channel.

Visit www.gssem.org/highestawards to learn more about the Girl Scouts Gold Awards.