As captain of his soccer team, Amrith Cumaranatunge is always looking out for his teammates. A natural competitor, he brings communication, awareness, and a team-first mindset to the field. However, it’s his work off the field that’s earned him honors from the American Heart Association (AHA).
This year, Amrith was named the AHA’s Teen of Impact for bringing attention to a remarkable cause—cardiac emergencies. In doing so, he’s extending that same team-first mindset to young athletes everywhere, ensuring they have proper equipment available when they need it most.
You can join Amrith’s team and help him provide life-saving equipment to young athletes by donating to the American Heart Association.
The Moment That Changed Everything
Amrith’s father has always been his biggest fan.
Every time Amrith steps foot on the pitch, his father is there, brimming with pride and energy, cheering him on play after play. But one moment transformed everything. In December 2024, his father was diagnosed with heart failure and coronary artery disease, forcing him to wear a LifeVest to Amrith’s soccer tournaments. He would eventually require an implanted defibrillator when his heart function did not recover.
No one would have faulted Amrith for taking time off from school and soccer. Instead, he chose to channel his concern into action.
Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Yet many sports fields still don’t have access to AEDs, portable defibrillators that, when administered, can save lives.
Watching his father’s battle with heart disease made Amrith realize how important it is for communities to be prepared for cardiac emergencies. Routine CPR awareness and access to life-saving AEDs on athletic fields can be the split-second difference between life and death. As the AHA’s Teen of Impact, Amrith now spends his time advocating for crucial programs that are helping young athletes everywhere.
Support From All the Right Places
As a Junior at BASIS Peoria, Amrith is surrounded by an unwavering community of encouragement. His classmates were there to lift his spirits while his father was fighting heart disease.
But support can also come in the form of inspiration. At BASIS Peoria, Amrith’s teachers inspire him to think beyond academics and look for ways to contribute to his community. Their encouragement motivates all BASIS students to work hard and pursue meaningful goals.
Experiences like these are a driving force for Amrith, motivating him to always be on the lookout for new ways to help others.
Help Amrith Make an Impact
From now until April 9, 2026, you can help Amrith raise critical support for communities everywhere. Preparedness, education, and action save lives. By joining Amrith and contributing a gift for heart health, you can help raise awareness and keep school sports safe. Click here to join Amrith’s team and make a tax-deductible donation to the American Heart Association.
