UCF Lake Nona Hospital Donates Lifesaving AED to Lake Nona Youth Sports

In a significant move to bolster community health, UCF Lake Nona Hospital has donated an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to Lake Nona Youth Sports.

 

This lifesaving device, valued at $1,500, was presented to the organization's Board of Directors on September 11.

 

Wendy Brandon, the hospital's chief executive officer, emphasized the institution's dedication to community well-being.

 

She stated, "By providing access to tools like this AED, we can ensure young athletes in our community are safe and their coaches and parent volunteers are prepared to respond in the event of a cardiac emergency."

 

Sudden cardiac arrest, a condition where the heart abruptly ceases to function, is a leading cause of death among young athletes.

 

According to the American Heart Association, over 356,000 such incidents occur annually outside hospital settings in the U.S.

 

While rare, the presence of AEDs and CPR training are crucial in mitigating these occurrences on sports fields.

 

Chaston Williams, director of tackle football and Pop Warner commissioner for Lake Nona Youth Sports, expressed profound gratitude for the donation.

 

He remarked, "Thanks to the servant leadership of Chief Nursing Officer Megan Koorn and Chief Executive Officer Wendy Brandon, and their donation of a brand-new AED, Lake Nona Youth Sports is prepared to employ life-saving measures in the event of an unexpected medical emergency."

 

Lake Nona Youth Sports serves over 1,200 athletes and coaches in the Southeast Orlando area, offering programs in tackle football, flag football, lacrosse, and cheerleading.

 

The organization's commitment to safety and community engagement is evident through initiatives like the "Sponsor A Child Athlete" program, ensuring all children have the opportunity to participate regardless of financial constraints.

 

Located in the heart of Orlando's Medical City, UCF Lake Nona Hospital is a 64-bed, full-service medical and surgical acute care facility.

 

It offers 24/7 emergency care, family birthing units, inpatient and outpatient surgery, oncology, diagnostic imaging, and a cardiac catheterization lab.

 

The hospital employs innovative solutions and life-saving technology, including non-invasive focused ultrasound incisionless brain surgery for the treatment of debilitating tremors and Parkinson's disease.

 

This partnership between UCF Lake Nona Hospital and Lake Nona Youth Sports underscores a shared commitment to the health and safety of the community's youth, ensuring that athletic programs are equipped to handle medical emergencies effectively.