February
Sharron’s Story: Resilience of the Heart
Approximately 2.4 million children and adults are thought to be living in the U.S. with congenital heart disease. The American Heart Association recognizes Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Week from February 7-14.
Sharron, a lifelong athlete, lived for years with subtle heart irregularities that went unexplained. After decades of infertility and rising blood pressure, a routine cardiac procedure revealed a severe Atrial Septal Defect and a large aneurysm. Emergency open-heart surgery transformed her health and, just three months later, made possible what she had long hoped for: motherhood.
Her experience deepened Sharron’s and her sister, Kristina’s, commitment to monitoring their own heart health as they each raise their daughters.
January
Bill McLaughlin: Turning Leadership into Legacy
Bill McLaughlin measures his legacy by one standard: being a great dad. As CEO of Thrive and a leader with the American Heart Association, his work is driven by family and purpose.
That commitment became personal when McLaughlin and his business partner both experienced concerning symptoms on a business trip. Acting quickly, McLaughlin urged medical care, an action that proved to be lifesaving.
The experience reinforced McLaughlin’s dedication to heart health and access to care. Now Chair of the Association’s Heart of New York City and a longtime philanthropist, he is focused on helping families recognize risks early and live longer, healthier lives together.
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January
February
Thrive is a proud local sponsor of the American Heart Association’s Heart of New York City.