I was born with Marfan syndrome, a genetic connective tissue disorder that can affect many parts of the body, including the heart and aorta.

For me, the biggest cardiovascular concern has been my aortic root. In May 2011, I graduated high school, and a few months later, at 19 years old, I underwent open-heart surgery. I had a Florida Sleeve valve-sparing procedure to reinforce my aortic root while preserving my natural aortic valve.

More than 15 years later, I'm doing well. My aortic root remains enlarged at about 4.7 cm, but it has been stable for roughly a decade. I continue to keep an eye on it through regular cardiology appointments, imaging, EKGs, and medication.

Having Marfan syndrome means heart health has simply always been part of my life. I've learned my limitations, I stay on top of my monitoring, and I keep going.

That's also why participating in the Heart Walk is important to me. Advances in cardiovascular research, surgical techniques, imaging, and long-term care have directly benefited people like me. The procedure I had at 19 allowed me to keep my own aortic valve and has continued to serve me well more than a decade later.

I'm walking to support continued research and better cardiovascular care so that more people—whether they're born with a heart condition, develop one later in life, or suddenly find themselves needing heart surgery—can benefit from those same advances.

For me, the Heart Walk isn't about what my condition has taken away. It's about supporting the science and medical care that have allowed me to keep moving forward.