As the American Heart Association celebrates a century of groundbreaking
advancements in cardiovascular health, we cannot help but wonder, what will the next hundred years bring?
Each year across the country, the Teen of Impact campaign empowers a new generation of changemakers, driven by a desire to make a difference not only in their own lives but in the lives of those they love. Nominees come together to form Impact Teams, leveraging the power of their networks to amplify awareness about heart health, raise essential funds for life-saving research, and advocate tirelessly for the well-being of all.
Let’s meet the extraordinary teens representing the Greater Washington Region:
Lara Asch
At the age of 10, Lara Asch was diagnosed with high cholesterol and high triglycerides, sparking a lifelong commitment to advocating for the importance of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Dedicated to representing the Go Red for Women movement, Lara is on a mission to break stereotypes and empower individuals of all ages and genders to prioritize their heart health and overall well-being. Get to know Lara.
Ava & Maci Cumberbatch
Ava and Maci’s journey began in 2020 during soccer clinic when Ava experienced
faintness. Thanks to the quick thinking of their coach, they sought medical help, ultimately discovering Ava’s diagnosis of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC). Further tests revealed that both Maci and their father also had LVNC. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and proactive health management, particularly among athletes and young women. Get to know Ava and Maci.
Tiarah Williams
Miss Teen DC, Tiarah Williams, is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the District of Columbia by promoting the message of FRESH (Fitness, Relaxation, Eatwell, Self-
Esteem, and Health). By incorporating these pillars into our lives from a young age, we not only reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease but also enhance our overall well-being. Inspired by her pageant “big sister,” Miss District of Columbia, and AHA Leader of Impact, Jude Maboné, who survived six heart attacks before turning 16, Tiarah is fiercely dedicated to advocating for teen health and heart wellness. Get to know Tiarah.
Are you ready to make an impact? We’re looking for passionate changemakers committed to transforming the health of our region and are actively seeking nominations for Leaders of Impact. Email [email protected] to learn more.