The recent spate of high temperatures in Tampa, Fla. brought back painful memories for the family of Hezekiah Walters, who collapsed at age 14 during a football practice in 2019. With a body temperature soaring to 102 degrees, Hezekiah later passed away in the hospital.
His sister, Phyllisity Walters, carries his laughter in her heart, remembering the warmth that his ever-present smile brought to their family.
“His presence is missed on a daily basis,” said Phyllisity Walters.
The loss of Walters sent waves of grief through the Tampa Bay community. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he could not be revived. Now, as the temperature rises six years later, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reports responding to numerous heat-related emergencies this week.
“This is the time of year that it’s dangerously hot outside,” said Rob Herrin, the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Public Safety Information Chief.
Walters’ family wants to make sure no one else has to experience this — especially as school and extracurricular activities get back in swing.
“When you think of Hezekiah, don’t view heat exhaustion as something negative,” Phyllisity Walters expressed. “Instead, think of it as a way he’s saving lives. Every time you see Hezekiah’s name, let it remind you to get CPR certified or to drink water to stay cool.”
Phyllisity, along with various organizations, is committed to spreading awareness about CPR and preventing heat-related ailments. Her brother’s passing underscored the urgent need for such resources in their community, and she is determined to make these life-saving measures part of Hezekiah’s enduring legacy.
“It made the pain of his death more easy to bear because we’re giving love to someone else,” said Phyllisity Walters.
For more information on the trainings, visit the American Heart Association’s website or The Skills Center’s website.
