A Second Chance
I walk today not only as a survivor, but as a mother, teacher, sister, friend, and daughter whose life was forever changed in an instant.
A heart attack, cardiac arrest, and stent surgery became chapters of my story that I never expected to write. One moment life felt normal, and the next I was fighting for my life. Fear, uncertainty, and countless difficult moments became part of the journey, but so did courage, faith, and hope.
Surviving these experiences gave me a new perspective on life. I realized how precious every heartbeat truly is and how important it is to never take another day for granted. I think about the people I love dearly and who depend on me and the roles I hold so close to my heart - I thought about my students and how much I still wanted to give, teach, and share. I thought about my family and friends who stood by my side, and whose love and support carried me through some of my hardest days. But most of all, I thought about my children and wanting more time with them for they are the strongest part of my heart and my reason to keep going.
This walk is more than steps on a path. It is a celebration of life, a reminder of the strength we discover in our most difficult moments, and a way to honor everyone who continues to fight their own heart battles. I walk for awareness, for research, for those we have lost, and for those still fighting.
Most of all, I walk because I was given another chance - another chance to love, guide, laugh, and live. Every step I take is a step of gratitude and proof that even after the hardest battles, the heart can keep beating stronger than ever.