I am participating in the 2025 AHA Heart Walk for reasons near and dear to my heart... My grandfather died from stroke related complications the night before my high school graduation. My father had a 3rd degree heart block and had to have a pacemaker implanted. Shortly after, it was determined he needed to undergo a 6-vessel bypass. He had the procedure, but never left the ICU, dying 3 weeks later. I was 7 months pregnant with my first child. 3 years ago, my best friend since high school suffered a devastating hemorrhagic stroke and was dead within 24 hours. She was 52 years old (October 17th is her birthday)-I chose her picture for my profile. A serious CoVID infection left me with a cardiac arrhythmia, which I will have for the rest of my life.
I was a paramedic for 25 years, a former PALS & ACLS Provider and BLS Instructor. I can attest to the positive effects of AHA's continuing research, community outreach and training programs. The readiness of our community can be the difference between life and death. The ability to make more memories with loved ones.
Every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers. Please help me reach my goal today.
Thank you!
