Lesslie Duncan and Jamie Uhlman have achieved something remarkable: making Pender County Schools only the second school district in North Carolina to have CERPs (Cardiac Emergency Response Plans) and AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) in all of its schools.
Now, they're taking their mission statewide by supporting legislation that would require this life-saving equipment in every North Carolina school.
A School Nurse's Mission
Jamie Uhlman, a school nurse at Cape Fear Middle School, knows that when cardiac emergencies occur, every second counts. Having immediate access to an AED and a clear response plan can mean the difference between life and death.
Setting the Standard
Pender County's achievement places the district in elite company as only the second in the state to reach this milestone. CERPs provide clear procedures for cardiac emergencies, while AEDs are portable devices that can restore normal heartbeat during sudden cardiac arrest.
Advocating for Change
With their local success as proof, Duncan and Uhlman are now backing a bill to make cardiac emergency equipment mandatory in all North Carolina schools. Their work demonstrates how dedicated individuals can create change that protects students and staff across an entire state.
For more information, please check out the article at: https://www.wect.com/2025/10/10/pender-county-moms-advocate-bill-that-would-put-aeds-every-school-state/
Picture: screen shot of WECT news story (minute: 2:00)