I joined the American Heart Association's Executive Leadership Team because I know that most people are not as fortunate as I am.

In May 2025, I suffered two major cardiac events: 1) a heart attack from the full blockage of my LAD artery (the "widowmaker") that was not detected for over a full day, and 2) sudden cardiac arrest following a full occlusion of that same artery from a blood clot two weeks later. At the end of the month I was still hospitalized, living with severely reduced heart function, and looking at the possibility of transplant or LVAD implantation.

My wife and I returned home in early June, our lives completely upturned and our futures uncertain. Over the next several weeks we rested, tried to follow doctors' instructions to the letter, and just generally relearn a lot of habits. My condition really began to turn around once I started cardiac rehab in late July; the UofL team showed me how to truly heal through consistent and well-regulated exercise. 

Rehab is also where I first learned about the Kentuckiana Heart Walk. The event was uplifting, energizing, and empowering. I was able to connect with numerous other survivors and hear their stories, and to learn more about the work that AHA performs year-round.

About a year on now, my heart function has almost fully returned and continues to improve. I am living life differently and finding new joy and purpose each day. When I got the opportunity to join the AHA team to help drive community involvement for this year's walk, I knew it was meant to be. And I couldn't be prouder!

I joined the American Heart Association's Executive Leadership Team because I know that most people are not as fortunate as I am. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly if you have more questions about my story, or about the many ways you can support this lifesaving organization! 

In a heartbeat, you could be the difference.

9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t survive. Most of the time, it’s because no one nearby performed CPR. But together, we can change that.

Extraordinary things happen when people take action. A small step. A simple skill. A lifesaving moment. Heart Walk brings communities together to create health and hope for every heartbeat. Every walker who joins, every dollar donated, means more people trained in CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone.  

Extraordinary starts with YOU. Help me reach my goal today!