As the President of Northwest Hospital, a healthcare leader and past chair of the 2023 Greater Maryland Heart Challenge, I’m committed to serving our community and promoting a heart healthy lifestyle. I want our team members, neighbors and our community to be the best, most healthy version of themselves. This community message is even more significant this year, as Northwest Hospital celebrates our 60th anniversary. As we celebrate our history in the community, let’s use this platform to educate and encourage as many people as we can on the importance of heart health.
I have a very personal reason why heart health and living a healthy lifestyle are so important to me. Just as I was starting my career over 30 years ago, I developed Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare disease where the immune system attacks the body’s nerves. It seemed as though in days, I went from being the picture of health to spending four weeks in the hospital, including two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit, and another four weeks in rehabilitation learning to walk again. After recovering from that episode, I pledged to live a healthier lifestyle. I became an avid runner and gym member and continue to run most mornings before work. Whenever there is an opportunity to share my story to encourage others to live an active lifestyle, I do.
Please join me in supporting the 2024 Greater Maryland Heart Walk!