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Inspiring survivor stories

In Massachusetts, a 10-year-old thrives after life-saving heart surgery

September 19, 2025September 19, 2025 by Chris Camire

Born with a congenital heart defect, Josie Pina had surgery as an infant. Today she’s a thriving 10-year-old and walks to raise awareness for heart health.

Categories Massachusetts Tags American Heart Association, Boston Heart Walk, Child heart survivor, Congenital Heart Defect, Family health advocacy, Heart disease in children, Heart health awareness, Heart warrior, Inspiring survivor stories, Massachusetts health stories, New Bedford Massachusetts, Pediatric cardiology, Pediatric heart surgery, Stroke and heart disease survivors, Strong heart stories

Three years after a stroke, Boston woman walks to save lives

September 19, 2025August 28, 2025 by Chris Camire

Alissa Smith, a Boston stroke survivor, is raising awareness and support through the Boston Heart Walk and the American Heart Association.

Categories Massachusetts Tags AHA volunteer stories, American Heart Association, Boston, Boston Common events, Boston Heart Walk, cardiovascular health, Fundraising for heart health, Greater Boston community, Health advocacy, Heart and brain health, Heart Walk Boston 2025, Inspiring survivor stories, Massachusetts health, Medical emergencies, Nonprofit fundraising, Patent foramen ovale (PFO), Stroke Awareness, Stroke prevention, Stroke recovery, stroke survivor, Women and stroke, Young stroke survivors
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