Hope Vest
Year 1 (2025-26)
by Gillian F. Carpenter
An automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) machine in the form of a vest making it easy to use and accessible to families and individuals across the country.
About This Idea
Heart related issues are the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than more than 350,000 lives every year. This number becomes even more distressing upon learning that many of these deaths could have been prevented. According to the American Heart Association, the immediate administration of CPR can double or triple the victim’s chance of survival. “Unfortunately, only about 40% of people who experience an OHCA get the immediate help that they need before professional help arrives” (AHA 2023). An easy to use vest which administers consistent and accurate CPR could save the lives of thousands of individuals across the country by providing immediate care.
Where Did This Idea Spark at WMU?
A few weeks ago I received devastating news that my grandfather had passed away due to a heart attack. My grandparents lived in a very rural area, and my grandmother no longer has the strength to perform CPR. When emergency services arrived, it was too late to resuscitate him. This tragic event made me think about how many people must be grieving at the moment over a loved one who passed away from cardiac arrest. I began brainstorming possible solutions, and eventually decided on the Hope Vest.
Impact in Kalamazoo
Death can shake a community more than anything. This is especially true when it comes to cardiac arrest, which can happen suddenly and at any age. If the Hope Vest saves even one person in Kalamazoo, it will be a win for the entire community.
How Investment Helps
The Hope Vest will not be possible without funding. It will allow me to collaborate with professionals across a variety of fields such as engineering, medical, and psychological to ensure that the machine is safe, reliable, and user friendly. My first local milestone will be meeting with medical professionals in Kalamazoo to gain their concerns, opinions, and advice on the machine. The Hope Vest could determine the difference between life and death, meaning cutting corners is not an option.
What I'll Do With the Money
1. Prototype Development & Iteration– $35,000
2. Engineering, Safety & Clinical Consulting – $20,000
About the Founder
My name is Gillian Carpenter. I am a twenty year old woman pursuing a bachelor degree in business management. As I have grown older, I have contemplated with what I want to do with my life. One thing has always been clear, I want to help people. I constantly reflect on the multitude of ways my community has helped me, and I want to give back. I knew this competition would be the perfect opportunity to do something that would impact the world for the better.