In April of last year, I was training for a 5K when I noticed a slight pain during my training workouts. It gradually got worse as the race got closer. I ran the race anyway, but I had to stop and walk every few minutes—something I’d never experienced before, since running has always been part of my life.

That experience pushed me to see a cardiologist, and I learned I needed a new aortic valve and triple bypass surgery. I had my surgery in November 2025, and I’m incredibly grateful I didn’t ignore the signs. I’m back to feeling great and running again (not quite at a full 5K yet, but I’m getting there).

Please don’t wait if something feels off—get checked. I’ll need annual monitoring for the rest of my life, and I’m walking to support the American Heart Association’s mission. Thank you for donating and helping advance heart health for others.