Sheridan family joins American Heart Association at Wyoming capitol to advocate for cardiac emergency response plans in schools

SHERIDAN, Wyo., Jan. 21, 2026 — Emerson Kelley was just 10 years old when she collapsed while walking into her school, Woodland Park Elementary. Thanks to quick CPR and an AED, she survived sudden cardiac arrest — a condition later linked to Long QT Syndrome, a genetic heart rhythm disorder.

 

Now 16 and thriving, Emerson and her parents, Shawn and Lindsay Kelley, will join the American Heart Association at the Wyoming Legislature on Feb. 10 to advocate for a law requiring Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs) in all public schools.

“Schools need more than just AEDs — they need a plan,” said Lindsay Kelley. “Our daughter is alive because people knew what to do. Every Wyoming school should be prepared for that moment.”

 

Each year, more than 356,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital in the U.S., including about 23,000 children under 18. Survival depends on immediate CPR and access to an AED. In schools with AEDs and trained staff, survival rates for children can reach 70% — seven times higher than average.

The Kelleys have already fundraised for AEDs in Sheridan schools and now want to ensure every Wyoming school has a comprehensive, practiced plan for cardiac emergencies.

 

Event Details:

• What: American Heart Association-Wyoming Lobby Day

• When: Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026

• Where: Wyoming State Capitol, Cheyenne

• Why: To urge lawmakers to pass legislation requiring CERPs in all public schools

• More about Emerson: On Feb. 24, 2020, Emerson collapsed in front of her school after suffering sudden cardiac arrest. School nurse Noele Mena and staff sprang into action, using CPR and an AED to restore her heartbeat to normal.

 

Just four days later, Emerson received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and pacemaker. Doctors later diagnosed her with Long QT Syndrome Type 1, a genetic condition passed down from Emerson’s maternal grandmother.

 

Her mom, Lindsay, also carries the condition and now receives cardiac care. Today, Emerson plays softball year-round, holding down third base with determination. Her family fundraises for AEDs in schools and advocates for CPR training — because they know firsthand that preparation saves lives.

 

Learn more and get involved at heartpowered.org or text LIFESAVERS to 46839.

 

About the American Heart Association 

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

 

For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org