Approximately 7.7 million adults are living with heart failure. Unfortunately, my dad was one of them.
My dad was born in Lima, Peru, and moved to the U.S with his siblings and mom when he was a teenager in search of a better life. In 1998, he became one of the most important people in my life-- he became my dad. For 27 years, I knew him as the person with the loudest laugh, the sharpest jokes, and the biggest heart in the room. You could always count on him to lift the mood with an a joke, giving someone a nickname, or asking if you were going to finish your food before you even took a first bite.
Around 2019, he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF). With the help of medication and a commitment to a healthier lifestyle, he managed his symptoms and continued to live a full and meaningful life. In 2025, everything changed when he was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. The cancer placed an immense strain on his heart. On April 17, 2025, my father passed away after fighting both illnesses with strength and resilience.
My dad's story and the countless others are #WhyIWalk to support the AHA. The AHA does amazing work in research and advocacy. It's time to unite, take action, and save lives. Every dollar donated means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research, and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers.