by James Coulter
After experiencing two incidents involving heart-related issues, Egg House Grill in Lake Wales is better prepared for any future medical emergencies.
On Wednesday, the local eatery received an automated external defibrillator donated by the Daily Ridge and Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF).
Melanie Brown Culpepper, along with CCF volunteers and Daily Ridge staff, visited Egg House Grill to donate and install the AED, as well as offer a demonstration on how to use the emergency medical device. Even Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss made an appearance during the donation.
The AED was sponsored by the Daily Ridge. The donation proved to be quite fitting, as Egg House Grill is a sponsor of the local media news site.
“This is my favorite breakfast spot in Polk County, and I could not think of a better establishment to give it to or a better family to give it to,” said Kip Kirchberg, Co-Founder of the Daily Ridge.
Warner Gabriel, owner of Egg House Grill, appreciated the donation, especially since it was donated by a local business that they sponsor.
“It was a very good thing, and it would save so many lives,” Gabriel said. “To me, it is a very generous token.”
When asked if his business would consider paying it forward to sponsor an AED donation, Gabriel replied it would be something he would consider.
Jasmine Turrubaites, Co-Owner at Egg House Grill, also appreciated the AED donation, especially since she had once received certification for CPR and other emergency techniques.
“I am happy everyone came out here to do it,” she said about the donation. “It really means a lot. We are more prepared for when something happens.”
Melanie Brown Culpepper started CCF nearly five years ago following the passing of her late fiancée, who passed away from cardiac arrest. Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, she started her non-profit to raise proceeds to donate AEDs across the county.
Since its inception, CCF has donated more than 50 AEDs to local businesses including Tanners Lakeside, Old Man Franks, and Caribbean Bay. Melanie was especially pleased that the latest AED was donated by the Daily Ridge, which has supported her organization since its inception.
“It really means a lot that they had me come out here today and do this,” she said. “I think it is a great idea to have this here, because at eateries, you never know what will happen. You will never know when a heart attack or issue will happen. But it is really good to have one here.”
Melanie has plans to donate more AEDs throughout the county, with two to three planned to be donated each month. She also plans to host her organization’s big fundraiser, Saving Lives Matter, at the end of the year.
“There are not enough good things to say about Melanie and what she does and how she does things,” Kip said. “If I could offer her one piece of advice, it would be to pause, reflect on all the incredible things she’s already achieved, and move forward with purpose. She’s moving so fast, I don’t think even she realizes how far she’s come.”
To learn more about CCF, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper
