In celebration of Florida’s new law – The Second Chance Act – and the life that inspired this legislation, Rep. Jason Shoaf teamed up with Who We Play For to host a free electrocardiogram (EKG) screening in Port St. Joe last month.
Results from the event prove just how important this new law is to the lives of Florida’s student athletes.
The Second Chance Act (House Bill 1135) was inspired by Chance Gainer, a Port St. Joe High School athlete who died of sudden cardiac arrest during a rival football game. HB 1135, sponsored by Shoaf and Sen. Corey Simon, requires all high school students who participate in sports to complete an EKG and medical evaluation.
“The Second Chance Act is more than just a law; it’s a promise to parents that we will do everything possible to prevent tragedies like this from happening to their child,” said Shoaf.
Port St. Joe student athlete Iva Rae, a cousin to Chance Gainer, joined friends and fellow teammates on July 10 at the free EKG screening hosted by Shoaf and Who We Play For. Shortly after, her mother was notified by the team that Iva Rae’s test results showed signs of a cardiac abnormality.

Iva Rae and her mother saw a cardiologist for a complete diagnosis and treatment plan. Now, they await surgery in late August for the young athlete to ensure she can get back on the field without concern. Without this screening, Iva Rae, an active softball, soccer and volleyball player, would not know she had the same heart condition that claimed her cousin’s life.
“The Second Chance Act saved Iva Rae’s life. It has been an incredible blessing to see how the tragedy of her cousin turned into a lifesaving measure for our daughter,” said Lindsay Williams, Iva Rae’s mother. “I cannot encourage families more to get their children screened. It could save your child’s life.”
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death among young athletes on school campuses, accounting for approximately 75% of all sudden deaths in these settings. Studies estimate that one in every 300 young people has an undiagnosed and potentially life-threatening heart condition. And with SCA being the first symptom of 80% of those affected, preventive screenings are a real opportunity for intervention and treatment.
“The Williams family’s experience is a testimony to the power of The Second Chance Act,” said Rep. Shoaf. “Soon, Iva Rae can return to the field safely, and her parents can take comfort knowing she will still be able to do what she loves and come home at the end of every game. I hope this is one of many stories we hear of lives saved from the Second Chance Act. “
With the Second Chance Act now law, Florida leads the way in prioritizing the health and safety of its student athletes.

To learn more about opportunities to attend a free EKG screening event in your community, visit www.whoweplayfor.org/heart-screening-registration.
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