In 2020, my dad was found unconscious early in the morning. He had suffered a heart attack that led to cardiac arrest in his sleep. He was rushed by ambulance to the ER and transferred for more specialized care. Doctors worked tirelessly to save him?during peak COVID, when resources were stretched thin. We prayed endlessly, but my dad never woke up. Losing him so suddenly, without a chance to say goodbye, was devastating. What gives us a small sense of peace is knowing he passed in his sleep without pain.
Why I walk:
I walk in memory of my dad. I walk for myself, for my family, and for my South Asian community. Heart disease is a silent killer and South Asians are at a significantly higher risk?yet conversations about prevention are often overlooked. Our parents may not listen when we tell them to skip the extra carbs, but maybe they?ll listen when we stress the importance of regular exercise, doctor visits, and early testing if at risk. This isn?t just a wake-up call for our parents? generation, but for ours too. Let?s educate ourselves and take action.
In 2021, my family and I walked together in my dad?s honor. Crossing the finish line as a family felt meaningful, but also bittersweet. I couldn?t help but think about how much I wished he could have been walking beside us as a survivor. Grief has a way of showing up in moments like that?but I continue to focus on what?s in my control: raising awareness, honoring his memory, and encouraging others to protect their heart health.
This December marks 5 years since my dad?s passing. He is still spoken about daily, remembered by his friends who became family, and celebrated for his unmatched generosity and spirit. His legacy lives on through my mom, my brother, and me?but most beautifully, through his grandkids, who each carry a piece of his heart.
If you feel moved, I ask you to:
? Donate if you can
? Make a small change for your own heart health
? Check in on your parents and loved ones
? Cherish your memories, and always spread love and kindness
Together, we can honor those we?ve lost, celebrate those who fight, and protect the generations to come.
