As a way of remembering and honoring her deceased brother, a local woman has donated funds to the Suffolk Police Department in order to purchase new lifesaving equipment.

April Brooks, chief executive officer and founder of “Strong Will,” a nonprofit organization, has coordinated a run/walk event for the past two years at the Suffolk Seaboard Coastline Trail during the Driver Days Fall Festival, held in late October.

On April 19, 2016, Brooks’ 35-year old brother, William “Will” West, died of a drug overdose. Following his death, Brooks decided that she wanted to do something to remember him that would help save lives and make the community a better place.

This year, Brooks decided to help the Suffolk Police Department in the purchase of new automated external defibrillators. This year’s event raised more than $8,500 after expenses, enough to purchase four to six new AEDs for the Suffolk Police Department.

“We sincerely thank Mrs. Brooks for her generosity, as well as the time and effort she has put into making this event a success,” Police Chief Thomas Bennett stated. “The equipment we are able to purchase will aid in the saving of lives in our community.”