Why I Walk â¤ï¸
Heart health is deeply personal to me and my family.
In 1998, at only 48 years old, heart disease suddenly took my dad from us. Dad was considered “healthy as a horse,” which made losing him even more shocking. His death was attributed to atherosclerotic heart disease. Sadly, heart disease has also claimed the lives of many of the men in his family.
Several years ago, my sweet aunt—my dad’s baby sister—suffered a heart attack as well. By God’s grace, her story had a different ending. He spared her, and we are so incredibly thankful she is still here with us and able to share her story. â¤ï¸
Then in January of this year, heart health became personal to our family in yet another way when my sweet hubby experienced life-threatening heart complications. While his situation was not caused by heart disease, he suffered a cardiac tamponade followed by a pericardial effusion, and our family saw firsthand just how quickly a heart emergency can change everything.
We have never been more aware of how precious every heartbeat truly is.
That’s why I’m participating in the 2026 Heart Walk and raising money for the American Heart Association. Nine out of ten people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital don’t survive, often because no one nearby performs CPR. Funds raised through Heart Walk help support lifesaving CPR training, research, education, and efforts to create healthier communities.
This year, my personal fundraising goal is $250, but I would absolutely love to exceed it and help our team reach our $2,500 goal.
If you feel led to give, any amount is greatly appreciated. Every walker, every donation, and every person who learns CPR can help create another lifesaving moment for someone’s dad, husband, sister, aunt, or loved one.
I walk in memory of my dad. â¤ï¸
I walk in gratitude for my aunt. â¤ï¸
I walk in thankfulness for my husband. â¤ï¸
And I walk with hope that more families will be given the gift of more heartbeats, more memories, and more time together.
Extraordinary starts with YOU. â¤ï¸
In a heartbeat, you could be the difference.