2026 Greater Charlotte Heart Walk
Team Gragnani-Woods
Health and wellness have always been a big part of who I am. I'm an avid fitness enthusiast who loves staying active, trying new workouts, and learning how to prepare healthy meals. For me, living a healthy lifestyle isn't about perfection. It's about making choices every day that help us feel our best and invest in our future.
One of the values that we worked hard to instill in our children was the importance of taking care of their health. From eating nutritious foods to staying active, we wanted them to understand that healthy habits built today can create a stronger tomorrow. We are incredibly proud that they embraced those lessons and they continue to make health and wellness a priority in their lives.
My passion for heart health is also personal. In my early 30s, I learned that I had high cholesterol, something that runs strongly in my family. I saw this as an opportunity to take action. I made lifestyle changes, improved my diet, increased my cardio, and focused on behaviors that would help me manage my heart health for the long term. My father has had heart surgery, and high cholesterol is something many members of my family continue to monitor closely.
That's why I support the American Heart Association and the Heart Walk. Heart disease doesn't just affect those who have experienced a crisis. It affects families like mine who are committed to prevention, education, and making informed choices that can lead to longer, healthier lives. I believe knowledge is power, and I am passionate about sharing what I've learned with my family, friends, and community.
Every step we take in the Heart Walk helps raise awareness, fund lifesaving research, and inspire healthier futures for generations to come. That's my why.