I walk because I know that with ever step, I am saving lives.
We're all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way. We have to change that.
In 1983, my dad was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation when he was just 32 years old. For those who don't know, atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm that can lead to blood clots in the heart. A-fib increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. It may happen in brief episodes, or it may be a permanent condition, which was the diagnosis my dad received.
In 2018, my dad began experiencing mild chest discomfort and within 24-hours, underwent an emergency quadruple bypass, during which, he had a "widow-maker" heart attack. Due to a-fib and the subsequent heart attack during surgery, his recovery time was significantly impacted, which led to an extended stay in the ICU and several weeks at a rehabilitation facility. I am incredibly grateful for the quick action by the emergency room staff and his cardiology team, and for the amazing care he received post-op. Knowing the signs/symptoms is critical and thanks to this, he was able to get the care he needed and successfully recovered from what could have been a very different situation for him and our family.
Your donation will help fund groundbreaking research that literally keeps hearts beating and helps people have longer, healthier lives.
Together we can do more! Please help me reach my goal today.