I'M A SURVIVOR!

This year, I'm walking with a new perspective.  I never thought this would be my story.

For years, I’ve participated in the Heart Walk because I believe in healthier hearts and stronger communities. Years of cheering for the Heart Walk could not have prepared me for what came next: I learned I had a tumor in my heart. It took open-heart surgery to remove it, and further testing led my doctors to perform a bypass as well.

Recovery isn’t easy—but it is possible, thanks to the science, standards, and support the American Heart Association makes available. Their research, evidence-based guidelines, and community resources helped shape the care that got me through—and restored my hope when the road felt long.

I’m deeply grateful for my medical team and for my family, friends, and co-workers who supported me every step of the way. Now, I’m extremely thankful to be healthy and walking again, and to give back—so the next patient and family have even better options and support.

If you’re able, please join me or make a donation to help fund lifesaving research, strengthen care standards, and expand community resources. Every step—and every gift—makes a difference.