The starting line of the AHA Heart Walk is my personal victory lap.

Years ago, my life stalled when I was misdiagnosed while suffering from heart failure. That terrifying experience changed everything. It forced me to become an advocate for my own health and a student of my own body, learning every day how to improve my quality of life so I can be there for my family.
I walk for the AHA for three reasons:

 * **Awareness:** Heart issues don’t just happen to the elderly; they can strike at any age. I share my story to ensure no one else ignores the warning signs or settles for a wrong diagnosis.

 * **Advocacy:** My health journey has taught me that living life to the fullest requires being proactive and informed.

 * **Action:** Research saves lives. Every dollar raised directly funds the breakthroughs that keep hearts beating and turn impossible diagnoses into survival stories.

I walk to prove that heart failure doesn't define the end of the road. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to take control of their health—and together, we can make sure every heart keeps beating.