My Story: The Race of My Life — 95 Days Post-Op Ross Procedure
Running has always been the rhythm of my life. From my days running high school track right here in New Hampshire to competing at Springfield College, and through 11 Reach the Beach endurance relays and countless half marathons, I've always found my strength on the road. As a physical therapist and a middle school cross country and track coach, my life's work has been about helping others find their stride.
But recently, the nature of my training completely changed.
Six months after my dad suddenly passed away at the age of 71, I went in for a standard checkup. My doctor heard a murmur, which led to an echocardiogram and a life-changing diagnosis: I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve. By May of 2025, it had progressed to severe aortic stenosis.
In a very real way, my Dad saved my life. Losing him was a heartbreak I will always carry, but his passing pushed me to get the checkup that caught my condition before it was too late.
On February 25, 2026, I underwent the Ross Procedure — open-heart surgery to replace my failing aortic valve with my own pulmonary valve, and my pulmonary valve with a donor valve. It is a complex valve operation and cardiac surgery. It was the longest race of my life.
On Sunday, I am walking in the NH Heart Walk to honor my Dad, who gave me the gift of a second chance. I am walking for my Aunt Barbara who is also an open heart survivor. I walk for Monica, Lauren, Erin, and Andrew, who are my ultimate motivation to keep moving forward. And I walk for every future heart patient who wants to cross their own finish line.
Please consider donating to my page to support the American Heart Association. Together, we can fund the research and awareness that saves lives—and keeps us all running.