2023 Hawai'i Heart Walk

Jackie Ng-Osorio, DrPH, MPH, is a heart survivor and AHA volunteer.

  
In 2003 she was diagnosed with complete heart block, an issue caused when electrical signals between the heart’s upper and lower chambers don’t transmit properly resulting in an irregular heartbeat.

“I was 27 years old, very fit and a very active runner when my initial condition was first diagnosed,” said Jackie, the mother of two children. “In 2003, I was feeling uneasy because it was taking longer to recover from my runs. One day I went out for an easy run and for two hours afterward my heart was beating so hard and fast it felt as if it were going to come out of my chest. From the initial diagnosis to the treatments and procedures, eventually, I was diagnosed with complete heart block. With this diagnosis, I needed a pacemaker to be inserted to help maintain a proper heart rhythm.”

“The research funds invested by the American Heart Association provided my cardiologist with the technologies and treatments, and the knowledge of how best to apply those tools for my care. That’s allowed me to be here with my family today,” she adds.
  

It only takes a few steps to save lives like Jackie’s.

Sign up for the Heart Walk, step out, and share your personal why.