Oklahoma Heart at the Capitol 2026

Aaden Dunson and Magnus Miller understand the importance of having quick access to an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Aaden, a high school senior, went into cardiac arrest when he was hit in the chest with a baseball. Fortunately, an experienced nurse began CPR immediately and had access to an AED. Aaden survived.

Magnus quickly went into action when an opposing basketball player collapsed on the court. His knowledge of CPR and the presence of an AED saved the young man’s life.

The two young men were among 20 other advocates who participated in the Oklahoma 2026 Heart at the Capitol Day on March 11. They met with key members of leadership in the Oklahoma legislature, including Sen. Lonnie Paxton, who is president pro tempore and Speaker of the House Rep. Kyle Hilbert. It was also a privilege to have American Heart Association Southwest Region Executive Vice President Tanya Edwards in the meetings, along with Brenda Nance, the nurse who helped save Aaden.

Advocates talked with their legislators about acute cardiac events in schools and strengthening initiatives to improve access to healthy foods. Rep. Emily Gise, who is sponsoring HB 3638, Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), met with all the advocates. The bill would provide Oklahomans who qualify for free school meals $40 per month during the summer to help with food costs.

The House heard HB 3638 on the floor late in the evening and passed it with a vote of 56-35, sending it to the Senate for consideration.

Oklahoma Heart at the Capitol Day demonstrated what is possible when passionate advocates unite around a shared mission: advancing policies that protect heart health, prevent disease, and build stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.

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