My story began at birth but was not discovered until I was at Girl Scout camp in NM at the age of 13.  Misdiagnosed several times over the years until a wonderful cardiologist (who also took care of my mom) confirmed that I had bicuspid aortic disease - simply put a not so good valve.  I went many years and was very fortunate.  In 2023, I was suddenly in the severe range and told I would need a valve replacement.  I received Dolly on November 2nd 2023.  Today I am healthy and strong and full of gratitude for all the doctors and the medical care I received.  

I am committed to volunteering with the heart association and choose to do the walk every year to celebrate my health and all those immpacted by stroke or heart disease. Unfortunately, heart attacks and stroke are often fatal or life altering.  In my family, heart attacks took the life of my grandmother and two of my uncles.  Several others have had attacks or other heart ailments including my mother who had a triple bypass on her 60th birthday.  That life saving surgery gave her 35 more years.  I am committed to walking in memory of friends and family and for others that I do not directly know.  

I hope that the funds I reaise can help with research and new treatments and awareness espeically for woman who are often misdiagnosed.  

Thank you so much for your support and for sharing.  Together we can make a difference.