A Life-Saving Story

On December 11, 2023, Trey Mobley was working out at Lakeside’s gym when he suddenly collapsed from cardiac arrest. He had no pulse and no respiration. Within minutes, a bystander and staff administered CPR and used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to shock his heart. Trey was rushed to the hospital, where his cardiologist said his survival chances were only 10% to 40%, with the risk of permanent brain damage.

Today, Trey is alive—and doctors credit his survival primarily to the immediate use of CPR and an AED.

Trey’s story underscores what research has long confirmed: AEDs save lives. When cardiac arrest strikes, seconds matter, and having AEDs readily available in public spaces can make the difference between life and death.

Background:  The Critical Need for Public Access Defibrillators

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It can affect anyone, without warning. According to the American Heart Association, each minute without defibrillation decreases the chance of survival by 10%. Bystander use of CPR and an AED can double or triple survival chances.

AEDs are designed for ordinary people to use:

• They are safe. AEDs will not deliver a shock unless the device detects that it is needed—so there is no risk of accidentally shocking someone with a heartbeat.
• They are protected under the law. Kentucky’s Good Samaritan Law shields bystanders from liability when they use an AED in good faith.
• They are secure. Modern AED cabinets are alarmed and equipped with cameras that take photographs when opened, which deters vandalism and theft.
• These devices provide clear voice prompts and can be used confidently by anyone, with or without prior training.

Our Proposal:

We respectfully request that Louisville Metro Council fund a Public Access Defibrillation Program to ensure AEDs are available, accessible, and maintained in high-traffic public areas—starting with Douglass Loop, a central gathering place in the Belknap Neighborhood.

Program Goals:

1. Purchase & Installation – Install AEDs in designated high-traffic areas.
2. Maintenance & Oversight – Allocate funds for inspections, testing, and timely replacement of batteries and pads.
3. Public Registration – Register the AED with 911 and provide visible signage so residents and responders know their locations.
4. Bystander Training – Partner with nonprofits and local agencies to provide free CPR and AED training to the public.

Why This Is a Wise Investment

• Saves Lives: AEDs in public areas dramatically increase survival from sudden cardiac arrest.
• Cost-Effective: A proven, affordable public health measure with high return on investment.
• Reduces Liability: A structured, city-supported program ensures safety and compliance while protecting the city.
• Strengthens Community Safety: AEDs empower ordinary residents to act quickly and confidently in a crisis.

Conclusion

We, the undersigned residents of Louisville, urge Metro Council to take action now by funding and implementing a Public Access Defibrillation Program—beginning with placement of an AED in the Douglass Loop.

Every second matters. Every life matters. With your leadership, Louisville can become a truly heart-safe city.