North Carolina Heart at the Capitol: Turning Passion into Policy for Healthier Communities

On May 20, 2026, the American Heart Association brought together passionate Heart Powered advocates at the North Carolina State Legislature in Raleigh for North Carolina Heart at the Capitol, a day dedicated to raising voices for healthier lives and stronger communities. Seventy five advocates, alongside survivors of cardiac arrest, school administrators, Miss North Carolina, and the athletic trainer who saved football star Damar Hamlin’s life, united to champion policies that prevent disease, improve health, and save lives.

Throughout the day, advocates participated in 125 meetings and legislative drop-ins to share why heart safety matters and how strong public policies can create lasting change. Discussions focused on Cardiac Emergency Response Plans in Schools along with Telecommunicator CPR, sparking meaningful conversations about the importance of preparedness, prevention, and equitable access to lifesaving care.

A highlight of the day was the press conference held in the legislature to support the inclusion of Cardiac Emergency Response Plans for schools in the state budget. This press conference was hosted by Representative Wyatt Gable and Senator Kevin Corbin, champions of The Smart Heart Act.

Speaking in support of the legislation at the conference was Denny Kellington, Vice President of Player Health and Performance for the Carolina Panthers. Kellington is widely recognized for helping save Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin’s life after Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during a nationally televised NFL game in 2023. Kellington’s immediate response, including administering CPR and coordinating the use of an AED, became a powerful reminder of how preparation and training can save lives. Emphasizing the importance of readiness in life-threatening situations, Kellington shared, “We practice for these events, and going through our rescue scenarios prepared us for that night.”

Hailey Yentz, a former East Carolina University track and field athlete who suffered cardiac arrest during a workout in February 2025, also spoke in support of the bill. “Cardiac emergencies can happen to anyone at any time,” Yentz said. “There really are no warning signs. It’s important for everybody to be prepared because, as my kids said, if there was no AED available or no plan in place, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Ten-year-old Adeline Dinin of Durham, who was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome type 2 as a baby, also shared her story in support of the legislation. “Every kid can experience a cardiac emergency, not just kids with heart conditions,” Adeline said. “Every kid.”

The Smart Heart Act would establish requirements for AED placement and maintenance in schools while also mandating CPR and AED training for certain school employees. Together, these powerful stories underscored that behind every policy is a person and that advocacy transforms personal experiences into progress that protects and saves lives.

The impact of the day extended far beyond the Capitol. Advocacy efforts generated 16 news articles covering the press conference and lobby day, highlighting the power of people coming together to drive meaningful change.

North Carolina Heart at the Capitol demonstrated what is possible when advocates, survivors, community leaders, and policymakers unite around a shared mission: advancing policies that protect hearts, prevent disease, and build healthier communities for generations to come.

Want to learn more? Check out media coverage from the event here and help us spread the word by liking and sharing our Facebook post.