❤ I Advocated for My Life. And It Saved Me.
In 2019, I survived a 99% blockage in my left anterior descending artery — often called the "widowmaker." A life-saving stent changed the trajectory of my life.
But before that diagnosis, I was told nothing was wrong.
One cardiologist dismissed my symptoms and told me to see a neurologist.
I knew something wasn't right. And I advocated for myself.
That decision saved my life. I am here because I listened to my body, sought a second opinion, and refused to give up.
Heart disease runs deep in my family — though I didn't always fully understand that history. Over time, I learned more. My grandfather passed away at just 45 years old. I lost two aunts to heart disease. Recently, my mother suffered a stroke.
This is not theoretical for me. This is generational.
I was active. I was a runner. I looked healthy.
And still, heart disease found me.
Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of women. Too often, women are underdiagnosed, undertreated, and unheard — in exam rooms and research labs alike.
We deserve better.
In 2021, I was honored as a Woman of Impact Winner by the American Heart Association. In 2024, I was named a Faces of Heart Honoree. But my greatest title is survivor — and advocate.
This year, I proudly joined the Hearts in Motion Team to support my sorority sister, Arnita DeShields, MSW, a Woman of Impact nominee. Arnita is doing the work — raising awareness, building community, and fighting for the women who haven't yet found their voice in a doctor's office. I joined her team because I know what it means to be that woman. And I know what it means to survive.
Together, we are working to ensure that more women are listened to, researched, and protected.
Your donation funds research focused on women's heart health, prevention and education initiatives, and equitable access to diagnosis and treatment. A gift of $25, $50, or $100 helps ensure that more women are heard — and more women survive.
I am here today because advocacy works. And together, we can ensure more women are too.
If my story moves you, I ask you to move with me.
Because sometimes advocacy isn't loud. Sometimes it's simply refusing to accept "you're fine."
Click the Donate button and stand with us in saving women's lives.
With strength and gratitude, Dawn Angelique Roberts ❤