My 'why' is deeply personal. Heart disease and stroke have impacted me within my family and with my friends—my Brother-in-law passed away suddenly due to a aortic tear, my father passed away from AFib that led to heart failure, and a close friend of our family died suddenly from a massive heart attack at just 46, leaving behind his wife and four children. Knowing that the funds we raise contributes to advancing research, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular disease, makes every bit of time and energy I dedicate to the American Heart Assoc. truly worthwhile.