On November 18, 2025, I got my second chance.

Just two weeks prior, I was diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect at 32 years old. Sometime earlier that year, my aneurysm ruptured and caused me to go into heart failure. As I got sicker, I consistently went to the doctor looking for answers only to be misdiagnosed multiple times. The throughline in every doctor after visit summary was my "health anxiety." Sadly, this story is far too common for women.

Cardiovascular issues often manifest differently for women, and many doctors look for the symptoms that men exhibit. If I had gone to the doctor with chest pain and a rapid heart rate, I believe I would have been diagnosed much sooner. Thanks to my doctors at Scripps Mercy, I was diagnosed in time.

45% of women in the United States over the age of 20 are currently living with some form of cardiovascular disease. A year ago, I didn't know that I was part of that group, and when I look around at my community, I often wonder who will join me. That's why I'm raising lifesaving funds for the San Diego Heart & Stroke Walk.

I hope you will join me as I cross the Survivor finish line for the first time.