Mirror Lakes Elementary receives lifesaving AED from HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital

Lehigh Acres, FL —  In a continued commitment to supporting the health and safety of the communities it serves, HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital, in partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA), proudly presented a new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to Mirror Lakes Elementary School today.

The donation is part of an ongoing effort by HCA Florida Healthcare to expand access to lifesaving equipment and to strengthen emergency preparedness in the community.

“The safety and wellbeing of the residents of this community are the heart of what we do,” said Paige Laughlin, CEO of HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital. “This opportunity to provide needed tools in an emergency is one way we're investing in healthier futures for our community.”

The AED donation aligns with the American Heart Association’s mission to improve cardiac emergency outcomes and increase survival rates through access to timely intervention and proper equipment. AEDs are critical in responding to sudden cardiac arrest, where every minute without defibrillation significantly decreases the chances of survival.

School leaders expressed gratitude for the gift, noting the importance of being prepared for emergencies on campus. The device will be available for use during school hours and extracurricular activities held on school property.

HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital’s commitment to community outreach includes health education, emergency preparedness initiatives and partnerships with local organizations to promote wellness and access to care across Southwest Florida.