I walk because I believe one person can make a difference, every heartbeat matters—and this cause is personal to me.

This year, I'm walking for someone who will always have a very special place in my heart—my mom.

Heart disease and stroke can touch any of us-our families, our friends, our coworkers, and our communities. Behind every statistic is a person we love, and too many lives are changed or lost.

Heart disease and stroke aren't just statistics to me. My own mom experienced multiple heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure. I've seen firsthand how heart disease can affect not only the person experiencing it, but the entire family who loves and cares for them.

As a nurse, I also know how quickly a medical emergency can change a life and how important it is to recognize an emergency and take action when every second counts.

That's why I'm walking. I'm walking in memory of my mom, for my family, for my patients, and for everyone whose life has been touched by heart disease or stroke.

I'm walking to help raise awareness, support lifesaving research and CPR education, and help create healthier futures for our families and our communities.

Every step I take and every dollar raised represents hope—for more research, more education, more lifesaving moments, and more time with the people we love.

Will you walk with me?

I'd love for you to join my team, STAR Squad All STARs, and walk alongside me.

Can't make the walk? You can still be part of my journey by making a donation toward my fundraising goal. No amount is too small, and every bit of support helps.

Whether you walk, donate, or simply share my story, you're helping make a difference.

I'm walking in memory of my mom. I'm walking for our families. I'm walking for every heartbeat.

Together, let's make every heartbeat count.