How the death of a young Wolverhampton mother led to a life-saving legacy
A defibrillator has been installed in Wolverhampton's East Park after a young mother died of a heart attack.
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The ribbon has been cut on a new defibrillator unit that was installed in Wolverhampton's East Park in memory of 29-year-old mother-of-one, Lauren Smith, who sadly passed away following a heart attack in her home in January last year.
The young mother died of a heart attack following a blood clot in the lung.
Now, in her honour, Lauren's family, with the help of Wolverhampton Council, has installed a defibrillator unit in East Park, with councillors saying they are "pleased" to be able to support Lauren's family in installing the new life-saving device.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for adults and wellbeing, said: "The high energy shock given by defibrillators is an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who is in cardiac arrest, and equipment has been located in public places across Wolverhampton so they can be used by members of the public in an emergency.
"We are pleased to have been able to support Lauren's family to install this new defibrillator in her memory at East Park Library."
The device was installed after Lauren's family approached local ward Councillor Lovinyer Daley for help.
Councillor Daley said: "I have known Lauren's family for many years, and I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of her passing as she was so young.
"I was approached by Lauren's mom to see if I could help with the installation of a defibrillator and working with our Public Health team we started a plan to bring this to fruition.
“A plaque that is above the new defibrillator will be a permanent legacy for Lauren, her immediate family and friends, and also her little daughter, ensuring that she will never be forgotten."
The plaque reads: "In memory of Lauren Smith, 1993-2023. Sending kisses to the sky to the most amazing mommy and daughter, taken from us far too soon. Heaven has gained the most beautiful angel. Forever in our hearts."
Lauren’s mother Emma Carrington said: “We would like to thank the council for its help in keeping Lauren’s memory alive and we hope that the defibrillator will prevent another family from having to go through what we are."
