Project ADAM (Automated Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory) was founded in 1999 after the sudden death of Adam Lemel, a 17 year old student from Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, who collapsed while playing basketball. Adam experienced Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) caused by ventricular fibrillation—a rhythm in which the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. Early defibrillation with an AED would likely have saved his life.

In his memory, Adam’s parents, Patty and Joe Lemel, partnered with Children’s Wisconsin to create a program dedicated to preventing similar tragedies in schools and communities.

Today, Project ADAM educates and equips schools to respond to sudden cardiac events by ensuring they have trained personnel, clear procedures, and strategically placed automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout their campus.

The Project ADAM Heart Safe School designation is awarded to schools that demonstrate strong cardiac emergency preparedness through awareness, training and a practiced cardiac emergency response plan. This three year designation reflects a commitment to a safer environment for students, staff and visitors.

The Project ADAM Wisconsin team will follow up when it’s time to renew your designation.

Project ADAM Wisconsin provides:

• Individualized consultations, ongoing communication, and support from the Project ADAM Wisconsin team
• Free educational videos and templates to help organize and customize your school’s program
• Connections to local partners for training, drills, and funding opportunities

All resources needed to complete these steps are available at Heart Safe Schools.