Three years ago I almost died. I was having significant chest pain, and I went directly to the ER after consulting a physician.

That was a Monday.

By that Thursday, I was having open heart surgery. I am alive today because when something didn't feel right, I took action.

9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital die. In most of those cases, bystander CPR was not performed. But we can change this.

Cardiac arrests happen at work, in homes, on athletic fields and in neighborhoods everywhere, and the readiness of our community can be the difference between life and death.

If you are anything like me, you like being prepared. I like knowing how to respond in difficult situations. I want to be helpful. And if I don't take care of myself, then I can't be helpful. I want the people I love to not only be healthy and be available to help, but I want people around me to know how to help and how to let ME be helpful. I care about my community. I hope you do as well.

It's time to unite, take action, and save lives. Every dollar donated means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers. Lifesaving help meant I lived. More lifesavers out there means more people live longer.

I Walk to Save Lives. Doctors and nurses helped to save my life three years ago. I want you to walk with me & show them and everyone you and I love how important it is to support the American Heart Association.

Help me reach my goal today.\u200b Please.

Thank you in advance.