Sussex County Nonprofit founded after infant’s death marks 9 lives saved as choking device gains FDA authorization

BRANCHVILLE, N.J. (Sussex County) — A Sussex County nonprofit founded in memory of an infant who died in a choking accident is highlighting lives saved as a newly authorized airway device gains wider recognition.

Maverick’s Legacy, created by Kim and Darrin Chambers, is marking nine lives saved in honor of their son, Maverick Chambers, who died in April 2022 at nearly five months old after choking.

The milestone comes as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently authorized the LifeVac airway clearance device for use in choking emergencies when traditional methods — such as back blows and abdominal thrusts — have failed.

Advocates say the authorization provides additional support for the device as a tool in life-threatening situations.

For the Chambers family, the development carries personal significance.

“We firmly believe that if we had access to a LifeVac during our son’s choking emergency,” Kim said, “we would still be building his life instead of his legacy.”

Since its founding, Maverick’s Legacy has partnered with police departments, first responders, schools and community organizations to distribute LifeVac devices across New Jersey and beyond.

According to the organization, more than 5,500 lives have been saved worldwide using the device, including nine connected to placements made in Maverick’s memory. Six New Jersey police departments that received devices through the nonprofit have used them in emergency situations involving choking victims.

The nonprofit continues its outreach, working to expand access to airway clearance devices and raise awareness about choking prevention and response.