Jesus Trujillo has been a volunteer with the American Red Cross for more than 25 years. As a certified CPR trainer he has used his skills to assist many individuals, including saving the lives of two of his five children. His training was used to assist his son who had a swimming accident and his baby who choked on a piece of watermelon.

“It is quite a feeling to see your children so close to death and in need of CPR,” Trujillo said. “With the Red Cross training, I was empowered to give that second breath of life to my sons.”

Trujillo has worked for countless hours assisting the Hispanic community in Utah County. As a Mountain Valley Chapter volunteer he has taught many the life saving first aid, CPR and AED skills. Trujillo said he became a volunteer in 1991 when he realized the need to teach HIV/AIDS prevention to farm workers. He views his training and certification as a gift to those around him.

“I feel that being CPR certified is a token of love to my wife and family,” Trujillo said.

The spirit of service that is part of Trujillo’s life has spread throughout his family. He, his wife and five sons are contributing to the community in several ways.

“When we involve our kids in our service, little by little they realize how rewarding it is,” said Delmy Trujillo, Jesus’ wife. “Now they are involved on their own, helping others and giving community service.”

The Trujillo family has been involved with other service organizations, including Centro Hispano and the American Diabetes Association. Most recently the family is helping with Soccer and Scouting, a program designed to help boys in the local Hispanic population get involved in scouting.

“As I get older, I realize the importance of helping those around us,” Jesus said. “Life is giving service and helping others. This is how your family can be happy.”

To find out more information on American Red Cross or to register for a CPR training class with Jesus, call 373-8580.