I walk because I know that with every step, I am saving lives. I also walk because I am fortunate that I can. You see in 2020 I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm which I never knew I had! It was accidentally found on a CT scan. I was told I would need open heart surgery! I was shocked to learn my sternum would be cut open and needing surgery because overall I am a healthy individual, in good shape and do not take any medications. 5 days before surgery I was even hiking!
My aneurysm was 4.6cm but because I had a family history of aneurysms and I had a genetic disorder my surgeon recommended I have surgery “sooner than later”.
Surgery was October 2023. My recovery lasted 12 weeks. I went through cardiac rehab and today I am better than ever. Surgery was a success and I am free of any restrictions. I can do what I love to do which is hiking, biking and walking!
I also walk for my late husband who passed away from a stroke in 2011. He was a vibrant, healthy young man of 56 years but a stroke took his life.
We're all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way. We have to change that. Will you help me?
Your donation will fund groundbreaking research that literally keeps hearts beating and helps people have longer, healthier lives.
This year, as we celebrate the Centennial of the American Heart Association, we will move health and well-being forward in important and critical ways. This relentless pursuit will continue until heart disease and stroke no longer exist.
Have a heart and help me reach my goal today.