My Heart Has a Story. This Is Why I Walk.

Some people walk because they support the cause. I walk because I am the cause.

I was born with a heart defect, and my journey with heart disease began before I ever had the chance to understand what a heart defect meant. At just 4 months old, I underwent my first open-heart surgery to repair my heart valve. At 13 years old, I faced open-heart surgery again—this time to replace my valve.

And my story doesn’t end there.

As I continue to grow, I will face future surgeries and additional valve replacements. It’s something I’ve learned to live with, but I never want another child or family to face this journey without hope.

That’s why I walk for the American Heart Association.

The money we raise helps fund lifesaving research, advances in treatment, education, and support for patients and families facing heart disease. Every dollar raised has the potential to change a life—and to help save one.

I know what it feels like to depend on medical research and the incredible people who dedicate their lives to saving hearts. I am here today because of them.

So on October 3rd, I’ll be walking for my heart, for the people who have fought beside me, for the future surgeries still ahead, and for every person whose heart story hasn’t been written yet.

I hope you’ll walk with me. 

Please consider making a donation to my Heart Walk team, Rachel’s Heart Heroes, or join my team and take those steps beside me on October 3rd.

Your donation may be more than a donation.

Your steps may be more than a walk.

Together, they can help save lives. 

Thank you for helping me turn my heart story into hope for someone else.