Hanover parks to get 10 new life-saving devices thanks to businessman’s generous donation

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Hanover County's parks will soon reach a new level of safety after the story of a life saved moved a local businessman to action.

On Friday, Feb. 14, county leaders unveiled 10 new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in some of its parks, which deliver electric shock during cardiac arrest. 

This was made possible thanks to the generous donation of Hanover businessman Sam Zeidan, who gave the county $50,000 to purchase these life-saving devices.

An AED saved Jack Mullikin's life when had a heart attack during a softball game in Pole Green Park in 2024. His story is what inspired Zeidan to donate

“When I heard the story about Mr. Mullikin ... that moved me," Zeidan said.

AEDs in Hanover County's parks. (Photo: 8News)

AEDs in Hanover County's parks. (Photo: 8News)

Volunteer firefighter David Long was there that day and he sprung into action, using an AED to help save Mullikin's life. He told 8News on Friday that he's thrilled to know AEDs will now be more accessible throughout Hanover.

“It just spreads the safety factor all throughout the county," Long said. "Hopefully they don't [have to be] used. That's what you hope. But, in the case that it does need to be used, they are lifesavers."

All three men were recognized at Friday's unveiling at Poor Farm Park.

County officials said they had initially planned to install more AEDs at parks over several years, but Zeidan’s donation has fast-tracked the effort.

Ceremony celebrating the addition of 10 AEDs at Hanover County parks. (Photo: 8News)

“This is something very important -- you can't put a price on people's life," Zeidan said. "So these units need to be in every park."

The donation will allow two more AEDs to be put in Pole Green Park, which will now have four total. Two AEDs will also go to the Montpelier Recreation Center and Library, Taylor and Courthouse parks, as well as Poor Farm Park.