Pennsylvania Smart Heart Sports Advocacy Day: Advocates uniting to change the future of health

On May 6, 2025, the American Heart Association proudly joined forces with passionate advocates and partner organizations at the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg for the annual Smart Heart Sports Advocacy Day. This important event brought together 40 dedicated individuals—survivors, families, healthcare professionals, and legislators—alongside partners including the NFL, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), The Spencer Davis Foundation, The Peyton Walker Foundation, the Gregory W. Moyer Defibrillator Fund, and the PA Athletic Trainers’ Society.

The focus of the day was clear: to advocate for targeted appropriations and stronger policies to address acute cardiac events in schools. With lives on the line, advocates urged lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 375 and House Bill 191, legislation that would require comprehensive cardiac emergency response plans at school and athletic events across the state.

Throughout the day, advocates participated in ten impactful meetings with legislators and staff—including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Senate Majority Leader, and Senate Education Chairwoman. Their heartfelt stories and compelling data led to encouraging conversations, with many lawmakers pledging their support and commitment to advancing these critical bills.

One of the most powerful voices that day came from Spencer Davis, a high school sophomore who survived commotio cordis during football practice in September 2024. Spencer bravely shared his story, joined by his parents, emphasizing the vital role his school’s emergency response plan played in saving his life.

We also heard from Rachel Moyer, who recounted the tragic loss of her son Gregory in 2000 to sudden cardiac arrest, and Kat Santiago, whose son Isaiah survived a cardiac arrest in gym class in 2022 thanks to swift intervention. These stories, along with those of Julie Walker and others, served as poignant reminders of both the devastating impact of inaction and the life-saving power of preparation.

The impact of the day was immediate: just 24 hours after Advocacy Day, House Bill 191 passed out of the Education Committee with a 23–3 vote, marking a significant step forward in protecting Pennsylvania’s students.

The 2025 Smart Heart Sports Advocacy Day was not only a success—it was a testament to the strength of community, the urgency of action, and the hope that, together, we can build a future where no family loses a child to a preventable cardiac event.

Check out press coverage of the event from Fox 43 – Harrisburg, and help us spread the word by liking and sharing our Facebook post.