I walk for my Dad & Mom.
Saving and improving lives can be as simple as taking a walk. And I know I'm making a difference in the lives of others by participating in the Heart Walk.
My story is my father's story and how my mom's broken heart inspires me to walk, as well. December 28, 1997 was life changing. My father passed away unexpectedly from heart failure, he was 43 years young. At that moment, I made a vow to break the cycle. I took control of my own heart health. Today, I exercise 5-7 days a week with intense cardio activity at my local bootcamp gym and walk 10 miles a week.
After my father died, my mom was never the same. In 2001, she suffered a heart attack. She had no idea that was the pain in her chest until she went to the doctor nearly a week later and they ordered a heart echo exam. By then, significant damage had occurred. After a series of stints and even open heart surgery over the past 20 years, she is still alive and well. Her doctors say her grief resulted in a broken heart. Again, I vow to break this cycle.
I have participated in this walk and donated to the American Heart Association as an employee at AT&T for the past 5 years. Each year I progress. Years 1-3 I was shy and participated virtually, years 4 & 5 I was still virtual, but posted more on social media and raised more funds. This year, I am on a mission. I have joined my organization and local Atlanta Team to help fight the heart fight!
I ask you to join me in fighting this fight. If you can't walk with me, you can certainly donate to the cause. Your donation will fund groundbreaking research that keeps hearts beating and helps people enjoy longer, healthier lives. I can't do it alone.
Please help me now by donating. Because every step counts. And together we are helping save lives!
Cheers to a Happy Healthy Heart!
~Denitra~
