My Mom. One needs to spend only a few moments with my mom, Nancy, to know she is an incredibly kind and deeply caring individual. What may not be immediately apparent, though, is that she is also a quiet fighter. In 2012, an autoimmune disorder called cardiac sarcoidosis attacked and significantly destroyed her heart. Over the next ten years, she underwent numerous cardiac procedures. While they helped, her heart eventually grew too weak to continue on.

In December 2022, my mom received a heart transplant.

While she will be in recovery for the rest of her life, that life is filled with the many happy moments she would have otherwise missed: seeing my brother and me marry our partners, meeting her grandchildren, and growing old with my dad. Without her heart donor and the miracle of medical science, none of this would have been possible. We are forever grateful.

Looking at her, you would never know what she's been through and what she continues to face every day: she?s vibrant and deeply present with the people around her. Her strength and perseverance ? physically, emotionally, and mentally ? have been extraordinary.

My mom has always been very active and, prior to her heart issues, she loved running. I?m running this marathon for her and in support of so many others affected by heart disease.

The American Heart Association. AHA funds lifesaving research, advocates for better heart health policies, and promotes public education. At a time when government support for medical research and health programs is shrinking, AHA?s work is critical to improving patient outcomes, supporting families in crisis, and easing suffering for millions.

Join me. I?ve committed to raising at least $5,000 to support this work but I hope you'll help me make a much bigger impact by raising $15,000. If you?re able to donate, I?d be so grateful. Every contribution makes a difference.

Thank you for being part of this,
Phil