In 2001, I was having breakfast at a restaurant when I suddenly began experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, lightheadedness, and a feeling of being very warm. My lips started to turn blue, and I knew something was seriously wrong. At the time, I thought I was having a panic attack, but my co-worker called 911 and got me to an emergency room, where I was diagnosed with SVT, an irregular heartbeat. That experience changed my life and introduced me to something I had never expected to face. I eventually underwent an ablation to treat my condition. Today, I am sharing my story and participating in the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk 2026 in Lancaster, PA, because I know firsthand how suddenly heart problems can enter your life. I hope my story inspires others to take heart health seriously and helps raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association’s lifesaving work.In a heartbeat, you could be the difference.
9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t survive. Most of the time, it’s because no one nearby performed CPR. But together, we can change that.Extraordinary things happen when people take action. A small step. A simple skill. A lifesaving moment. Heart Walk brings communities together to create health and hope for every heartbeat. Every walker who joins, every dollar donated, means more people trained in CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone.
Extraordinary starts with YOU. Help me reach my goal today!