I?m Dennis Smith, a 55-year-old AT&T manager from Marietta, Georgia, a proud husband, father of five, and grandfather of four. For six years, I worked as a wire tech in Acworth, climbing poles to keep our community connected, before stepping into management. But my story goes beyond my career?it?s about resilience, family, and my personal fight against heart disease.
Heart failure took my mother and my grandfather, and now I?m battling advanced ischemic heart disease. In March 2023, a heart attack changed my life. I already had multiple stents, including one in my left anterior descending artery (LAD). After the heart attack, a dissection in my LAD required another stent, but due to my previous procedures, doctors couldn?t place any more. As my condition progresses, cardiologists are adamant that a heart transplant is in my near future.
Despite this, I?m hopeful. I believe in the power of research to find solutions for people like me, which is why I?m teaming up with Connected Hearts for the 2025 American Heart Association Atlanta Heart Walk. I?ve set a fundraising goal of $250, and so far, I?ve raised $50 to support groundbreaking research, better treatments, and lives saved from heart disease.
Every step I take at the Heart Walk is a step toward a future where families like mine can live longer, healthier lives. I invite you to join me and Connected Hearts?walk with us, donate, or share my story. Together, we can make a difference for me and millions of others fighting heart disease.
