The Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation was started in 2000 after a Northport High School freshman died suddenly from sudden cardiac arrest during his first lacrosse game. Louis Acompora, a 14-year-old young athlete, blocked a routine shot with his chest and took a few steps before collapsing on the field. He passed away after paramedics arrived almost 15 minutes after his initial fall.
It was discovered that Louis' death could have possibly been prevented if there was an automated external defibrillator, AED, on the field. This led to his parents, John and Karen Acompora, to start the foundation and raise awareness in schools and other public places about the importance of having this device on site. The foundation has now saved nearly 90 lives since being established.