Louis Acompora, 14, died suddenly in March 2000, after he was struck in the chest while playing goalie for the Northport varsity lacrosse team.

Since then, a foundation created  by his parents Karen and John in his memory — The Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation —has been dedicated to "taking children out of harm's way," by advocating for the awareness and availability

Locally, the foundation has done much for local athletic youth leagues, including getting coaches trained, donating AEDs, sponsoring events and hosting the annual Northport Lacrosse Jamboree and much more.

Now, along with the American Heart Association, the Acomporas are urging the New York State Legislature to pass a bill ensuring that high school students learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation and how to use a defibrillator. they are seeking the community's help in getting a bill passed that would require high school students to learn CPR before they graduate.

"Learning CPR has become easier and more affordable. There are many inexpensive options that do not entail taking a certified course, and the training can be accomplished within a half-hour," said Karen Acompora.

The timing is appropriate because it is National CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) Awareness Week.

Here's how to show your support for the legislation:

1. Fill out a simple form
2. The letter will automatically generate.
3. Click SEND LETTER button.
4. You're done.

Click here to begin.

Don't know the Acompora's story or need a little motivation? Read more here. Please contact the Acompora's if you would like to know more or are interested in helping the foundation.