Our Mini Heart Walk team is walking in memory of Stephen Birmingham, who passed away last year during emergency heart surgery. Stephen was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and learned as a teenager that he also had an enlarged aorta. After years of careful monitoring, he underwent open heart surgery at just 19 years old to replace the valve. For many years afterward, Stephen continued living life fully and enthusiastically. At age 40, what initially seemed like a lingering cold led doctors to discover that another section of his aorta had enlarged and required emergency surgery. After 16 hours in the operating room, there was simply too much damage to his heart tissue, and Stephen passed during the procedure.

Stephen embraced life with incredible energy and curiosity. He was passionate about countless hobbies and interests-an avid reader, dedicated board gamer, enthusiastic disc golfer, kayaker, fantasy football guru, and talented woodworker, just to name a few. More than anything, Stephen loved connecting with people. He had a wide circle of friends and left a lasting impression on everyone he met with his humor, kindness, and enthusiasm. Stephen was a beloved son, partner, brother, uncle, and friend. He is deeply missed and forever loved, and we walk in his honor to celebrate his life and raise awareness for heart health.