Cardiac Arrest Survivor and Friend Launch Initiative to Map Lexington’s AEDs
In Lexington, a cardiac arrest survivor, Sarah Katzenmaier, and her friend Charlotte Callan, who performed CPR to save her, are partnering to map the locations of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across the city. This initiative aims to improve accessibility to…
Lexington, KY, October 5, 2026 — In Lexington, a significant initiative is underway to enhance emergency response capabilities through the mapping of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Sarah Katzenmaier, a survivor of cardiac arrest, has joined forces with Charlotte Callan, the friend whose swift action in performing CPR was instrumental in saving Katzenmaier’s life. Their partnership aims to create a comprehensive map of AED locations throughout the city.
The primary goal of this collaborative effort is to improve the accessibility of AED devices, making them more readily available during critical medical emergencies. By identifying and documenting where AEDs are situated across Lexington, the initiative seeks to shorten the time between a cardiac arrest event and the application of defibrillation. This is crucial, as immediate intervention with an AED can significantly increase the chances of survival for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
Katzenmaier’s personal experience highlights the importance of both CPR and accessible defibrillation. Her survival serves as a powerful testament to the effectiveness of prompt medical intervention. Callan’s role in administering CPR underscores the vital link between bystander assistance and the availability of life-saving equipment like AEDs.
The founders hope that by making AED locations more visible and accessible, the community can be better prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies. While the summary provided details the core of the initiative and the individuals involved, specific timelines for the mapping project, the methods of data collection, or any formal partnerships with city or emergency services were not provided.
The initiative is focused on increasing survival rates for cardiac arrest victims by ensuring that these potentially life-saving devices are easily locatable. The founders believe that a systematic approach to mapping existing AEDs is a critical step toward building a more resilient community prepared to handle medical emergencies effectively.
Story summarized from the original created by Ana Medina on www.lex18.com, see more information here.
