I have decided to participate in the 2022 Greater Nashville Heart Walk because of family. Last July, my father passed away unexpectedly from Hypertensive Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease. It is is a disease in which the inside of an artery narrows due to the build up of plaque. Initially, there are generally no symptoms. When severe, it can result in coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, or kidney problems, depending on which arteries are affected.
Unfortunately, heart disease runs in my family. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure means that the heart isn't pumping as well as it should be. Congestive heart failure affects people of all ages, from children and young adults to the middle-aged and the elderly. Almost 1.4 million persons with CHF are under 60 years of age. Heart failure is responsible for 11 million physician visits each year, and more hospitalizations than all forms of cancer combined. Heart failure is a serious condition, and usually there's no cure. But many people with heart failure lead a full, enjoyable life when the condition is managed with heart failure medications and healthy lifestyle changes.
Thank you so much for your donation. The money that I raise means more moms, dads, brothers, aunts and babies' lives saved. Even the smallest donation can make a big difference.