Nine-Year-Old’s Sensory Bags Now Standard Issue on Henrico Ambulances

Ledger Mann, a nine-year-old boy from Virginia, has been named TIME’s Kid of the Year for creating a practical tool that helps first responders assist children with autism.

The program, known as LGM Bags, has distributed more than 432 clear backpacks across Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. These bags contain sensory-friendly items, communication boards, and therapeutic tools designed to calm patients during emergency calls.

The initiative began in Prince George County after a search for a missing autistic child. Sergeant J.T. Mann, a 28-year veteran of emergency services and Ledger’s father, found the child hiding under a grill cover. Mann asked his son, who was diagnosed with autism at age two, what would make him feel safe if found by a responder. Ledger listed stuffed animals, noise-canceling headphones, and fidget spinners. He also specified that the backpack must be completely clear so non-verbal children could see the contents and point to what they need.

Ledger funded the first prototypes with $100 from his piggy bank. His father recalled that the boy wanted to handle the initial distribution himself and did not ask for the money back. Those first bags were distributed directly from his savings.

Firefighter Courtney Koppelman championed the expansion of the program into Henrico County. Koppelman grew up with a brother who had spina bifida and a learning disability, giving her personal insight into the challenges faced by special needs patients. She noted that ambulances are often overwhelming due to engine noise and beeping monitors. The noise-canceling headphones in the bags provide a more comfortable environment for patients.

Dr. Anjali Ferguson, the Henrico County Office of Medical Director, stated that the bags bridge the gap between hospital resources and field care. Hospitals typically employ child life specialists with toys and tablets, but field responders previously lacked these tools. Ferguson explained that the bags allow for safer and more efficient medical treatment by soothing anxious minds.

The donated bags have been placed on all frontline Henrico ambulances, EMS captain vehicles, and with police crisis intervention officers. The program has received national and international attention, including features in major publications and billboard recognition in Australia.