Although I won’t be able to attend this year’s Heart Walk in person on Saturday, March 28, 2026, my heart will absolutely be there as the president of the board of directors for the American Heart Association for Greater Phoenix. That same weekend, I’ll be presenting at the American College of Cardiology on women's heart health, continuing our shared mission to raise awareness about heart disease—the leading cause of death.

In my absence, I’m proud to be building a team to walk on my behalf, helping amplify the message that prevention, education, and movement truly save lives.

This year’s walk is also in honor of my beloved fur baby, Sasha Bella, who passed on January 14, 2026, and forever changed my life. For those who know me, Sasha was my favorite walking partner and daily reminder to practice what we preach. Dogs like Sasha help keep us active, lower stress, and have been shown to reduce our risk of heart disease and help us live longer—a lesson she lived out with me every day.

I participate in this mission not only as a cardiologist, but as a daughter, a family member, a friend and an advocate who has supported loved ones—and countless patients—in improving risk factors for heart disease and managing cardiovascular conditions across the lifespan.