On June 8, 2022, my life changed forever. I woke up to a crushing pressure in my chest — something I had never felt before. I tried to calm myself, thinking maybe my body was still recovering from a surgery I had just one week earlier. But as I began to sweat heavily and felt an overwhelming sense of exhaustion, I knew something was seriously wrong.
A friend called 911 right away. On the way to MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, my left arm grew so heavy and painful that I could barely lift it. By the time I arrived, I was terrified — but I was surrounded by an incredible team who acted quickly.
Dr. Brian Case and the interventional cardiology team discovered my main coronary artery was 100% blocked. They immediately performed an emergency heart catheterization and placed a stent to restore blood flow. Their quick thinking saved my life.
Heart disease has deeply affected my family. I lost my mother to an aneurysm, and both my father and brother to massive heart attacks. That family history, combined with my own experience, has made me even more passionate about educating others to listen to their bodies and never ignore symptoms.
Just three days after my heart attack, I was home — and 38 days later, I was cleared to go back to work. Every day since, I’ve been grateful for another chance at life.
If I hadn’t trusted my instincts that morning, I might not be here today. I’m forever thankful for Dr. Case and the entire MedStar Health team for saving my life — and I hope my story inspires others to act fast and take their heart health seriously.
The readiness of our community can mean the difference between life and death. Every dollar donated helps train more people in lifesaving CPR, funds groundbreaking research, and creates more lifesaving moments for families everywhere.
I’m walking with Team Hearts of Passion at the Heart Walk on November 7, 2026, to raise awareness and honor my loved ones — my mother, father, and brother — who were all taken too soon by heart-related conditions.
Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers.
đ’— I walk to save lives — please support Team Hearts of Passion and help me reach my goal today.