From Our Hearts to Your’s: Thank You!

The holidays are upon us and it is the time of giving.  The giving of gifts, the giving of time, the giving of goodwill…and most importantly, the giving of thanks.

As volunteers who have been personally affected by heart disease, we want to thank every person who has supported the American Heart Association | American Stroke Association.  Perhaps it’s a donation, attending a Heart Walk, championing a healthy change or supporting your child in a Jump Rope For Heart program.  No matter how you’ve shown support, we want you to know that you have made a difference.

BobGoodman

In 2012, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with cardiac sarcoidosis which required me to have a heart transplant on November 24, 2013.  The journey to a new heart was not easy, but I am thankful to still be here.  Because of my successful surgery, I’m able to enjoy life, work out, travel and spend time with my family and friends. – Robert Goodman, Westampton, NJ

 

 

Janice Recca 1IMG_5146 copy (Large)

I am the survivor of thoracic aortic aneurysm surgery and I have shared my story for many years in order to inspire others to take charge of their health.  Since my surgery, I have lived a very active and healthy lifestyle and have watched my children grow up.  I now have a new reason to stay healthy—my granddaughter. –Janice B. Recca, Long Valley, NJ

 

 

Augustine Concepcion

Born with a congenital heart defect, I made history at the age of two when I became the youngest recipient of a pacemaker. Since then, I’ve needed several pacemaker replacements. To date, I’ve undergone 104 surgeries, multiple transfusions and too many tests to count. But I’m still here because of all the work that has gone into the battle against cardiovascular disease.  –Augustine Concepcion, Ocean Grove, NJ

 

 

Evalyn is Why Blog Post Pic 4Our daughter, who was born with a congenital heart defect, had already undergone two open heart surgeries, three cardiac catheterizations, a stent placement and countless other procedures by the time she was two years old. We know firsthand how devastating cardiovascular disease can be, as well as the absolute joy when there’s a way to save your child’s life.  –Fred and Mia Carella, Yardley, PA

 

 

We’ve seen advancements in the treatment of heart disease and strokes because of research. We’ve seen workplaces make a shift toward workplace wellness to support the health of employees.  We’ve witnessed children saving lives because they’ve learned CPR.  We’ve heard the push of making the healthy choice the easy choice for all Americans.  And all of this has been possible because of the generosity of supporters like you.

Thank you for the support that you’ve given and for the support you will give as we move forward to a day where heart disease and stroke are no more.  On Giving Tuesday, December 1, 2015, we hope you will consider supporting the American Heart Association by volunteering, participating at an event or making a donation at www.heart.org/donate.  Happy holidays!

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