HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Culpepper's Cardiac Foundation partner to strengthen heart health in the community

Brandon, FL — HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation continue their shared mission of improving heart health and saving lives across West Central Florida through the donation and installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in community spaces.

This week, the foundation, with support from Brandon Hospital, installed a new AED at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church and School in Riverview marking the 77th AED placement across the region. It’s the second sponsored by Brandon Hospital, with a third installation planned soon.

A paramedic representing the foundation installed the AED and led a hands-on demonstration for teachers and administrative staff, showing how the life-saving device works and how it can be used in an emergency. The new AED is positioned in a central area accessible to classrooms, outdoor sports, after-school programs and community meetings including scout troops and parish events.

“Our ongoing partnership with Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation reflects our deep commitment to heart health in our community,” said Anna Hendrix, manager at HCA Florida Riverview Emergency, one of Brandon Hospital’s six free-standing emergency departments. “We’re proud to support their mission and help ensure that more people have access to these critical life-saving devices.”

The collaboration between Brandon Hospital and Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation began two years ago, inspired by founder Melanie Brown Culpepper’s personal story. After losing her fiancé, Michael Culpepper, to cardiac arrest in 2020, Melanie founded the organization to raise funds for AEDs in local businesses and community spaces.

“When I found Michael unresponsive, I called 911, and they asked if I had a defibrillator,” Melanie shared. “That day, I didn’t. I knew I couldn’t save him, but I could save someone else.”

Since then, Melanie has dedicated herself to expanding access to AEDs and raising awareness about cardiac arrest response. Brandon Hospital’s support has helped expand that mission making sure more families, schools and organizations have the tools and training to save lives.

“This partnership is a wonderful example of how compassion, community, and healthcare can come together to make a difference,” said Tripp Owings, CEO at Brandon Hospital. “Each AED placed represents another opportunity to save a life and that’s something we’re proud to stand behind.”