On March 16, 2026, the American Heart Association convened passionate Heart Powered advocates in Augusta for the CERPs in Schools Legislative Reception. Co-sponsored with the Northern New England (Maine) Chapter of the American College of Cardiology, the event brought together 17 advocates for a meaningful evening focused on raising their voices in support of healthier lives and stronger communities. Together, they championed policies aimed at preventing disease, improving health outcomes, and ultimately saving lives.
Throughout the reception, conversations centered on acute cardiac events in schools and the need for implementation funding for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs). These discussions sparked thoughtful dialogue about how policy can help create safer environments where every individual has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life.
Advocates engaged directly with lawmakers in a setting that differed from a traditional lobby day, offering a more informal and relationship-focused atmosphere that emphasized connection and community building. The event served as an important opportunity to strengthen partnerships, reenergize longtime advocates, and welcome new voices into the movement.
The momentum extended well beyond the reception. While Maine is currently wrapping up its “short” legislative session, advocates secured commitments of support for the bill and generated meaningful interest in the policies for the next legislative session, including potential interest in bill sponsorship.
One of the most powerful aspects of the evening was the sharing of personal stories by survivors and loved ones. Maryann and Joe Coakley courageously shared about their 12-year-old son, Liam, who passed away just after Christmas in 2025 due to a congenital heart condition. The Coakleys spoke about honoring their son’s memory through advocacy and ensuring that other children have access to lifesaving protocols, proper training, and AEDs in schools and athletic events.
Additional perspectives from survivors further underscored the importance of preparedness. Maine Board member Mindy Beyer and Jennifer Browne shared their experiences living with heart conditions, including a congenital heart condition and heart transplant respectively, highlighting the critical need for emergency planning and access to appropriate resources. Representative Kelly Murphy of Yarmouth, who serves as House Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Education, reinforced these messages, emphasizing the importance of CERPs in Schools policies and the role that personal stories play in driving meaningful legislative action.
The Maine CERPs in Schools Legislative Reception demonstrated the powerful impact of advocacy rooted in connection, storytelling, and shared purpose. By bringing together passionate individuals and committed leaders, the event highlighted what is possible when communities unite to advance policies that protect heart health and create a stronger, healthier future for all.
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Your voice matters—act now! Join American Heart Association Heart Powered and help shape policies that save lives. Visit https://heartpowered.org or text HEART to 46839 today to make an immediate impact.