September 10, 2025 – Team Khaos, Inc., a premier youth baseball program dedicated to player development and character building, proudly received the 73rd Automated External Defibrillator (AED) from Culpepper Cardiac Foundation (CCF) during a special event last evening at Aim High Sports Batting Cages in Eagle Lake. This milestone placement underscores CCF’s mission to enhance cardiac safety and equip communities with life-saving tools and knowledge.
Founded in 2019 by Coach Jerome Richardson, a seasoned coach with over 18 years of experience, Team Khaos Baseball was created to address the gap in youth sports by offering elite training, competitive opportunities, and mentorship focused on leadership and integrity. Coach Jerome, who also leads the baseball program at Discovery High School, has built a program that not only elevates athletic performance but also fosters accountability and community involvement among young athletes. “Team Khaos isn’t just about baseball—it’s about shaping young men into positive role models,” said Coach Jerome. “We’re deeply honored to be recognized by Culpepper Cardiac Foundation and to join their mission to save lives.”
The AED placement event, held on September 10, 2025, at the impressive Aim High Sports Batting Cages, featured a comprehensive demonstration led by Eric Shimcus, a paramedic with over 24 years of experience at Winter Haven Fire Department and a dedicated CCF volunteer. Shimcus educated Team Khaos athletes, coaches, and parents on AED use, CPR, choking devices, and Narcan for overdose emergencies.
The demonstration also highlighted the importance of carrying a fire extinguisher in vehicles, a tribute to Jolynn, a young girl loved and lost in a car fire in November, and her mother, Logan Deines, through the For The Love Of JoLynn initiative. “Eric’s hands-on approach was empowering,” Coach Jerome noted. “Our community left feeling confident and prepared to act in a cardiac emergency.”
Culpepper Cardiac Foundation, founded by Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke in honor of her late fiancé, Michael Culpepper, who passed away from heart failure in July 2020, is dedicated to increasing AED access and awareness.
Since its inception, CCF has placed at least two AEDs per month in communities, supported by sponsorships, donations, and events. The Foundation also awards three annual scholarships for Fire, Medical, and EMT students, honoring first responders. “If we save just one life, it’s all worth it,” said Melanie. “This journey began as a way to heal, and now, with the support of our community, we’re making a real difference.”
The connection between Team Khaos and CCF began in November 2024 at a benefit event hosted by R2 Cares, where Coach Jerome and Christen Paige discussed their shared commitment to youth development and safety. Partnering with R2 Cares, CCF addresses both mental health and heart awareness for young athletes. “Jerome’s dedication to mentoring hundreds of kids through Team Khaos is inspiring,” said Christen. “Placing an AED at their organization ensures their athletes, coaches, and families are protected during practices, travel games, or any emergency.”
The event saw strong attendance from Team Khaos athletes and parents, who were engaged and respectful throughout the demonstration. “I was so impressed by the batting cages and the enthusiasm of everyone present,” said Christen. “It’s clear that Team Khaos is a special organization, and we’re proud to support their commitment to safety.”
CCF extends gratitude to its partners, including Rescue 7 Inc., CoroMed, and AED.US, as well as media sponsor Daily Ridge and supporters like Brian Beilke and Brandon Whitchard. “Our community’s support makes this possible,” Kristin added. “We all may be the closest first responder, and saving lives matters.”
To learn more about Culpepper Cardiac Foundation, its AED locations, and how to support their mission, visit Culpepperaed.com.
