I am excited and honored to join The American Heart Association’s Team Heart & Stroke to run the New York Marathon this November. This opportunity is incredibly personal to me, as I’ve recently faced my own heart health challenges.

I started running after the pandemic to get in shape, but soon became hooked. As I increased my distance, I began experiencing chest pains, which I initially dismissed. However, last July, during a run, the pain became so intense that I almost passed out. A cardiologist ran tests, all of which came back normal — until August, when another episode led to a CT scan revealing that I'd been living with a congenital heart defect my whole life. The only solution was open-heart surgery.

Thanks to an amazing medical team and the support of family and friends, I had the procedure in December and am now recovering. Every step I take since has reminded me how fortunate I am to still be active — something I may not have known was at risk if I hadn’t been running.

As I’ve worked to rebuild my stamina and heart health, I knew I wanted my first race post-surgery to be meaningful. That’s why running the New York Marathon — as a former New York resident — and raising funds for the American Heart Association means so much to me.

As part of Team Heart & Stroke, I’ve committed to raising $5,000 before race day on November 2nd. 

Your donation, no matter the amount, will directly support the American Heart Association’s work. Every step I take during the marathon will be for this cause, and with your support, we can make a real difference.

Please consider donating and sharing this page to help spread the word. Your support means the world to me and to those benefiting from the AHA’s efforts!