I ran the Heart Mini 15k in Mar 2022 for the first time but little did I know that I would get to experience the difference American heart association makes first hand a few months later.
On June 4th 2022 while working out at my local Gym (Orange Theory Montgomery) I collapsed due to a cardiac arrest with no pulse. Swift action by the coach (I will be forever grateful to her) and a fellow Gym member I was revived using CPR and a Defib. Few days in the hospital and a couple of procedures later I was back on my feet and able to run heart Mini + Flying Pig half in 2023.
I cannot stress the importance of CPR, my episode prompted me to get CPR trained myself by AHA run program. I would encourage others to also get certified and not be a bystander if you see something like this happening in front of you. The certification involves a small online portion and an in person demo/class. For people with small businesses an investment for an AED will go a long way, you never know when it would come to use like it did for me. These days when I walk into an office or a public place first thing I notice is the location of an AED not for me (As I have my own implanted Defib) but in case I have to make use of it for someone in need.
I am seeking support from you for this worthy cause, will you be a Heart Walk Hero with me? Your donation will fund groundbreaking research that literally keeps hearts beating and helps people have longer, healthier lives.
Update - I successfully ran the heart mini in 2023 and 2024 with my condition wearing a survivor bib in freezing cold. It was tough as I had to keep a close eye on my heart rate but I did it. With all your support I was able to raise close to $3000 for this worthy cause !
Thank you for your support !