Kari Fleck - Heart Survivor & 2025 Leaders of Impact Nominee
Participating in Leaders of Impact is deeply personal for me. As a heart survivor, I've experienced firsthand how suddenly and profoundly heart disease can change a life, and how vital early detection, research, and education truly are.
In 2017, after a morning run, I felt what I thought was normal post-workout fatigue. Hours later, I was told the words that still echo in my mind:
"Mrs. Fleck, we believe you're having a heart attack."
I was diagnosed with a serious cardiac arrhythmia and underwent a life-saving ablation procedure. Today, I'm healthy, grateful, and committed to using my second chance to help others. My identical twin sister has since been diagnosed with an even more severe arrhythmia, proof that heart disease can touch any family, regardless of age, health, or lifestyle.
You have an opportunity to help support my efforts and shape the health of our community by funding the innovative research, education, and programs of the American Heart Association. Locally, I'm raising funds to provide CPR training kits and AED upgrades in local middle and high schools, ensuring students learn the skills that save lives.
The American Heart Association measures success in longer, healthier lives, and with your help, we can make that future possible.
Click below to join me in creating a real impact on the health of our community.
Click the Donate button to support the American Heart Association today.
Fundraising is open from September 18 at 9:00 AM until November 5 at 9:00 PM.