This is my way of giving purpose to a part of my story I never imagined writing. 

This year, Heart Walk is incredibly personal to me. After experiencing two heart attacks and undergoing triple bypass heart surgery at the age of 29, I am walking to advocate for better care, research, and awareness of heart disease. 

Through my work on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, I have learned how powerful it can be when someone chooses to show up during another person's most difficult moments. Whether it is an emotional crisis or a physical emergency, having someone close by who knows how to respond can change the outcome.

Nine out of ten people who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital do not survive, often because no one nearby performs CPR. Through Heart Walk, we can make CPR training more accessible for everyone and support the research, education, and resources that give more people the chance to survive and recover.

For me, this walk represents second chances, healing after the unexpected, and the importance of being there when someone needs help the most. 

In loving memory of my pawpaw and my aunt Gail, forever missed and always a part of my story.