Why I walk?
Join me in my efforts to support a mission near and dear to my heart!
My niece Alexa, 16 years old, was born with a congenital heart defect called HypoPlastic Right Heart Syndrome. Like many kids with CHD, Alexa's journey is nothing short of long, complicated and ongoing... 3 open heart surgeries, multiple heart catherizations, trial and error treatment plans, a life flight helicopter ride, and more… here we are 16 years later after being told Alexa was likely to not make it past 6 months of life.
Being involved with the American Heart Association has meant so much for my family and I and has provided our family a platform to share Alexa's story and feel heard. The AHA has funded research that directly impacted my niece's journey in so many ways, and continues to do so. In 2021, the AHA announced $900K in funding focused on CHD's. This is part of the 10-year commitment made by the AHA and the Children’s Heart Foundation to invest $14.3 million to further CHD research!
Thanks to excellent medical care and continued research funded by the AHA, our family finds hope and positivity in what is possible with Alexa's care.
The AHA's mission impacts all of us and our family and friends can live longer lives and create more memories because of the work they do!
PLEASE consider making a donation to my Heart Walk page today! Funds raised go towards cardiovascular and stroke research, education, and advocacy efforts here in Cleveland and across the country.
Thank you in advance for supporting me with a donation today!