As many of my friends and family members know, in 2019 when I had my twins Molly and Rory, I was quickly diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy - a rare condition where your heart fails due to pregnancy related complications. They still don't know exactly why it happens (I am a part of a study now at Mass General Hospital), though there seems to be a connection with those moms who are pregnant with multiples.

Over the course of a few days, my doctors identified what was happening. I spent time in the hospital, and after a few months of treatment, I was able to bring my ejection fraction back up to a normal, healthy range. It's continued to improve in the years since!

I feel incredibly fortunate for the care I received at Mass General and Newton Wellesley Hospital. My incredibly kind and brilliant cardiologist, Dr. Honigberg, introduced me to the American Heart Association, and last year I did some educational videos for them about peripartum cardiomyopathy. I was inspired by their work around women's heart health - an area that desperately needs more attention.

This year, I'm thrilled to announce that I'm running the 2026 Chicago Marathon in partnership with the American Heart Association (and yes, Dr. Honigberg always gives me two thumbs up when I ask him if I can continue running marathons). My goal throughout this year is to raise awareness about pregnancy-related heart issues and support all the life-saving work they do every day, for people all across the country. I've got some BIG running goals this year, too (ah! scary to put that out into the universe). 

It also happens to be my 40th birthday year, which feels like the perfect time to celebrate my health, the people I love, and this huge milestone. I hope you'll consider supporting my fundraising efforts and the incredible work of the American Heart Association.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me!