Did you know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, with stroke ranking second? Even when they don?t lead to death, these conditions often cause lasting disability and greatly diminish quality of life.

Like many of you, my family and friends have been deeply impacted by heart disease and stroke. I?ve volunteered with the American Heart Association since 2013, but the mission became even more personal in May 2020, when I was diagnosed with a heart condition myself.

Thanks to the incredible research funded by the AHA, I was able to undergo a successful surgery and regain control of my life. I?m deeply grateful for the advances that made that possible?and I?m honored to continue giving back as a member of the American Heart Association?s Executive Leadership Team here in Northwest Arkansas.

Together, we can make a difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke. â¤ï¸