In a heartbeat, you could be the difference.

In late 2025, I experienced a major heart health scare that changed my life. After living with atrial fibrillation for several years, I began experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms that I initially brushed off. Little did I know, I was on the verge of having a major heart event that would land me in the hospital for five days and begin a long journey to rebuild my weakened heart.

At the time, my heart function had dropped significantly, and I left the hospital wearing a defibrillator vest while facing months of recovery and uncertainty. Through excellent medical care, lifestyle changes, the support of my family and friends, and a lot of faith and perseverance, I gradually regained my strength. Today, I am grateful that my heart function has returned to normal and that I am back to living an active life and doing many of the things I love.

That experience gave me a new perspective and a deep passion for heart health awareness. I learned firsthand that heart disease can impact anyone, often when you least expect it. Through my partnership with the American Heart Association, I hope to help educate others, encourage proactive heart health, and support the lifesaving research, education, and community programs that make a difference every day. If sharing my story helps even one person pay closer attention to their heart health, then this journey will have served an even greater purpose.

Extraordinary starts with YOU. Help me reach my goal today!