For the past several years, I've participated in the American Heart Association Heart Walk for different reasons, but always with the same purpose - to honor the people I love and support the fight against heart disease.
It started with my grandfather, known as "Papa" to his grandkids, who passed away in 2014 after a more than 20-year battle with heart failure.
Then I began walking in support of my father-in-law, "Pappy," who, as of this past April, celebrated five years with his new heart. The gift of organ donation and a second chance at life is truly incredible.
This year's walk is different.
My father passed away unexpectedly in February, and it has been one of the hardest experiences my family and I have ever faced. He was "Papa" to my daughter and his other grandchildren, and not a day goes by that I don't think about him, the lessons he taught, and the memories he gave us. This year, every step I take is in honor of him.
To honor his memory, I'm asking for your support. Whether it's a donation of any amount, registering to walk with us on September 12 at Point State Park, or simply taking a few minutes to learn Hands-Only CPR, every action can help save a life.
Heart disease has touched my family across generations. Together, we can help create more birthdays, more memories, and more time with the people we love.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, my family, and this cause. It truly means more than you know. â¤ï¸