Owen Hockenberry Death; – Owen Hockenberry passed away in August due to choking on a piece of steak. In response, community members are committed to taking measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
On Sunday, Owen’s family donated two LifeVacs to local daycare centers. “Small-town America makes a difference every day,” stated Arthur Lih, founder and CEO of LifeVac. “They embody the true spirit and essence of our nation.”
“I firmly believe that every life on Earth has a purpose, and this was Owen’s,” remarked Vickie Wheatley, founder of the Chubby Hands Foundation. “They must relive that experience, and to do so for others is the ultimate act of sacrifice,” Lih added. “Our goal is to ensure that every school is equipped with these devices.”
Over $10,000 was raised on Sunday, with half allocated to LifeVac and the other half to the Chubby Hands Foundation. “It’s a simple device. You push it, pull it, and it removes the obstruction,” Lih explained while demonstrating the LifeVac.
“I would never want to witness a family endure the loss of a child or someone I have cared for,” said Desirae Leonard, owner of Playland Daycare, which received one of the LifeVacs. “We will continue to utilize the funds raised today to acquire additional LifeVac systems for donation to daycares, preschools, and schools within the community,” Wheatley stated.
They will persist in sharing Owen’s story, aiming to honor his memory and effect positive change. “He was larger than life, and his purpose will never cease,” Wheatley expressed. Owen’s parents, grandparents, and the Chubby Hands Foundation are collaborating with Rep. Charity Grimm Krupa on legislation that mandates police, fire, and EMS to carry LifeVacs on their vehicles.
