On August 12, 2022, my family's world changed when my dad, Keith "Beaver," unexpectedly passed away from a massive heart attack.

His passing was incredibly sudden. He passed instantly, but he was surrounded by people who knew how to perform CPR and immediately did everything they could to help him. Despite every effort, the heart attack was too severe for him to survive. In such a heartbreaking moment, I find some comfort knowing that he was surrounded by people who knew what to do and that he was in a place where he had the best possible chance.

Heart disease has also touched my family in ways that are impossible to ignore. My dad's father had two strokes and three heart attacks. My dad's brother, had congestive heart failure after a heart attack, began his journey with heart disease and ultimately needed a valve replacement but passed before the procedure could take place. My dad's mother also passed away from a massive heart attack. With so much Heart disease throughout my dad's family, Losing him so suddenly made me realize just how deeply this disease has affected the people I love.

My dad had a way of making even the simplest days feel so full of life. He could be friends with anyone and put a smile on everyone's faces instantly. He was the person you could always count on, and someone who would never hesitate to show up for people who needed him. He made everyone feel welcome and like they belong, and that is something I will carry with me forever.

I always find myself going back to the night, sitting around a campfire, Listening to music and laughing, surrounded by the people he loved most. Those simple moments are some of the memories I treasure the most, and they remind me of just how much love he put Into our lives.

Losing my dad so suddenly taught me how quickly life can change. Before August 12, 2022, I never imagined that heart disease would become such a significant part of my family's story. Now, every year, that date reminds me not only of the day I lost him, but of how much I wish I could have more time with him.

This year, I'm participating in the American Heart Association Heart Walk in his memory. My goal is to raise $1000 to support the American Heart Association's work to fight heart disease and stroke, improve heart health, and help other families avoid experiencing this kind of loss.

For me, this walk is about more than reaching a fundraising goal. It gives me a way to honor my dad and his family while turning something incredibly painful into something that can hopefully help others. I know I can't change what happened to my dad or the other members of his family, but I can help support the work being done to prevent heart disease, educate people about heart health, and give families more time with the people they love.

If you're able to donate, no amount is too small, and every contribution means so much to me. If you aren't able to donate, sharing my story or simply keeping my dad in your thoughts means just as much.

Thank you for helping me honor my dad and supporting this cause, and being part of something that means so much to me and my family.