Today I’m writing about a subject close to my heart (hopefully not literally): cardiovascular disease. Chances are it’s touched someone in you life—it’s the #1 killer of all Americans and takes a life every 38 seconds. Boom—three or four people will be gone by the time you finish reading this post.

It’s a killer that has devastated my family too many times. The Father-In-Law I never knew died after his fifth heart attack—my husband was just fifteen. Weeks after I met my husband, it struck down his step-father while he sailed upon the open seas. And recently, the disease stole my son’s beloved “Beach Papa” far, far too early. Strokes have dealt a crippling  blow to family members, as well.

Several friends have children struggling with genetic heat diseases. Every part of their family’s lives are impacted by their conditions, and their bravery, compassion, and resilience never ceases to amaze me. They handle each new crisis with inspiring dignity and strength. They deserve a healthier future.

Such close tragedies have opened our eyes to the risks of not only an unhealthy lifestyle but genetics. Though we eat healthy, exercise, and don’t smoke, my thin, athletic husband must carefully monitor his blood pressure and cholesterol. When we married, he vowed to live a year past 48, the age of his father when he died. I vehemently informed him that was not a part of our deal; I expected at least another 48 years together. 

American Heart Association Missions: By 2020, to improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20 percent while reducing deaths from cardiovascular disease and stroke by 20 percent.

 

How you can help:

• The 2012 Greater Orlando Heart Walk is THIS Saturday, September 15th, 2012. 
• You can still register for the 3.1 mile route or the 1 mile “Survivor” walk around beautiful Loch Haven Park. 
• Festivities begin at 7 a.m.  — Walk at 8 a.m.
• Can’t make it? Please consider making a donation in a participant’s name.

The Greater Orlando Heart Walk is a major fundraising event for the American Heart Association. At the time of posting, the generous people of Central Florida have raised just over 1 million dollars towards the event goal of 1.4 million. Funds raised help to:

**Please help spread the word about this important cause. Tweet, Facebook, Pin, and share this post. You can make a difference.

I am writing this as part of a contest for the CFL Blog Conference and the Rollins Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership Center.  I stand 100% behind the Greater Orlando Heart Walk and the American Heart Association.