A few years ago, my husband suffered a stroke. It was one of the scariest experiences of our lives. I remember sitting in the hospital thinking, "He's not that old. This shouldn't be happening." In an instant, everything changed, and we were faced with an uncertain future.

One day during his hospital stay, his roommate was a gentleman who had already experienced five strokes since May of that same year. I learned something that has stayed with me ever since: once a person has a stroke, the risk of having another one increases. That realization was sobering and heartbreaking.

I have participated in the Heart Walk many times before, but this year feels different. This year, the mission hits much closer to home. I now understand firsthand how quickly a heart or brain health crisis can affect an individual, a family, and everyone who loves them.

In a heartbeat, you could be the difference.

Nine out of ten people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital do not survive, often because no one nearby knows CPR. But together, we can help change that. Every dollar raised supports lifesaving research, education, and CPR training that empowers ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Heart Walk brings communities together to create health and hope for every heartbeat. Every walker who joins and every donation made helps fund breakthroughs, train more lifesavers, and give families like mine hope for the future.

My husband's stroke reminded me that none of us know when our lives might change. That's why I'm walking. I'm walking for my husband, for stroke survivors, for families facing the same fears we did, and for a future with fewer heart attacks and strokes.

Extraordinary starts with YOU. Please help me reach my goal and make a difference today. Every step matters. Every donation matters. Every heartbeat matters. â¤ï¸