In 2020, my life changed in a way I never could have imagined.

I experienced a life-threatening cardiac event—a dangerous heart rhythm called polymorphic ventricular tachyarrhythmia. It’s the kind of event that many people simply don’t survive.

But I did.

I was incredibly fortunate to have received medical attention when I needed it most. Quick intervention, incredible medical professionals, and what I can only describe as a whole lot of grace gave me something I will never take for granted: more time.

Today, I live with a pacemaker/defibrillator, a constant reminder of just how fragile life can be, but also of how far medicine has come in protecting people like me.

What makes my story even more unusual is that my heart looks completely normal structurally. The problem is electrical. I’ve experienced supraventricular tachycardia and other dangerous rhythms, but despite extensive testing, several ablation procedures, screenings, and even genetic testing, we still don’t have the answers.

And that has stayed with me.

Because somewhere out there is another person whose heart looks perfectly healthy, but whose life may depend on research discovering what we don't yet understand.

That is why the American Heart Association means so much to me.

Research isn't just a statistic or a scientific breakthrough. Research is the reason someone gets another chance. It is the reason doctors have better tools, patients have more options, and families get to keep the people they love.

I am walking because I know firsthand that every step toward better heart research matters.

I’m asking my friends, family, and coworkers to walk with me, get some extra steps in, or considermaking a donation to the American Heart Association. Because somewhere, right now, someone’s second chance may depend on the research we support today.