I chose to work for the American Heart Association nearly 10 years ago because of my friend Lauren Laman. When we were in high school, Lauren went into sudden cardiac arrest during dance practice. Although CPR was started immediately, an AED wasn?t used.

After her passing, her family partnered with the AHA to help make sure other students were better prepared. Thanks to their work, the Lauren Laman Law was passed in Illinois?ensuring that every high school student receives basic CPR and AED training.

I think of Lauren every single day. She is my why?the reason I walk, and the reason I?ve dedicated the last decade to helping bring lifesaving education into every community. I?m also deeply proud to work for an organization that prioritizes women?s heart health and focuses on reaching underserved populations.