In March 2024, just six weeks after I started working for the American Heart Association, I became lightheaded, dizzy, and nearly fainted during a meeting with a heart survivor. With the urging of others, I went to the ER that evening, where I was told I have bradycardia (low heart rate.) This can be normal, but it can also cause symptoms like the ones I experienced.

I was referred for a 30-day heart monitor, which showed an episode of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia and a heart rate dropping as low as 36. My echocardiogram was mostly normal. All of this was happening during a year when I ran 1,000 miles, ate healthy, and truly felt like I was in the best shape of my life, yet I was still exhausted at times.

After the results came back, I met with an electrophysiologist. Since then, I’ve worn another heart monitor and undergone genetic testing. I still have symptoms from time to time, and we don’t yet have all the answers. But I’m incredibly grateful for the doctors, technology, and tools available to me. I even carry a handheld EKG monitor so I can capture any episode in real time and share it with my care team.

These advancements exist because of research. I’m deeply thankful for the work the American Heart Association does, research that truly improves and saves lives.

In addition to my role with Heart, I also work in the hospitality industry and see hundreds of people each week. Because of the American Heart Association, I feel prepared to act if a customer or coworker goes into cardiac arrest. Bystander CPR can double or even triple someone’s chance of survival.

Your support is truly appreciated. Every dollar helps train more people in lifesaving CPR, funds more research, and creates more lifesaving moments for everyone.

I walk to save lives. Thank you for helping me reach my goal.