Each year, I participate in the Heart Walk to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is deeply personal to me and my family.

I walk in memory of my father, my uncle, my grandfather, and my grandmother. I walk in honor of my brother, my cousin, and two uncles who have had very close calls. I also walk for two young girls in my family who are bravely living with Alagille syndrome. Because of our strong family history of heart disease, many of my loved ones have had to make significant lifestyle changes to protect their health.

When I was 18 years old, my dad passed away in his sleep from a massive heart attack. He was only 54. It was his second heart attack — the first happened in his 40s and required quadruple bypass surgery. In recent years, we’ve also lost my grandfather, grandmother, and an uncle to heart-related illnesses. We nearly lost my oldest brother after he suffered a major heart attack in his 40s, and two of my uncles have undergone open-heart surgery.

Even those who live healthy lifestyles can still be at high risk for heart disease, just like many in my family and like me. Your donation not only helps me honor my loved ones, but also supports lifesaving research, education, and prevention efforts.

Together, we can make a difference and help prevent other families from losing someone they love too soon!