ABOUT the Organization

The Richard Andrew Helgeson Memorial Foundation, a Section 501(c)(3) Public Charity, was established on May 25, 2005 in memory of Richard Andrew Helgeson (Andrew) who passed away on that date from SCA. The Richard Andrew Helgeson Memorial Foundation has the purpose of raising the awareness of SCA in young people. The Foundation’s activities include heart screenings of children and young adults, continued efforts to expand Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public places, efforts to require a more rigorous Pre-Participation Examination for athletes, and expansion of the high school curriculum to include AED and CPR training as a prerequisite for graduation. The Foundation also raises funds for SCA research and AED donations. Donations can be made to the letterhead address.

The Foundation was recently successful in promoting and lobbying passage of a bill, HB1200, informally called “Andrew’s Law” that was signed into law on April 25, 2006. "Andrew's Law" mandates the placement of AEDs in all Maryland high schools and at all school-sponsored sporting events. They will be there to protect children, staff and visitors alike.

Foundation Goals

Raise awareness of SCA in youths & athletes
   Conduct heart screenings of young athletes
    Promote a more rigorous Pre-Participation Examination (PPE) for athletes
    Continue efforts to expand AED placement in public places
    Mandate CPR and AED training as a prerequisite for high school graduation
    Support creation of a National Registry for SCA
    Establish a National SCA Awareness Day
    Raise funds for SCA research
   Present an annual award to a high school student that best exemplifies Andrew’s compassion.