Why I Volunteer

By: Rachel Brodsky, Guest Blogger and Volunteer, American Heart Association

Why I Volunteer

Rachel Brodsky and family volunteer at the 2018 Bergen Passaic Heart Walk

My name is Rachel Brodsky and I am a volunteer for the American Heart Association. I am a media/communications major, graduating in May! When I am not in class or studying, I am hanging out with friends (or watching my Friends on TV), making my radio playlist, and looking for ways to give back and help others. My passion is music, which is why I DJ a show at my school’s station and play the oldies hits. Sometimes, I feel like I was born in the wrong generation, but music is something I find therapeutic and gives me purpose.

As a volunteer for the American Heart Association, you find yourself answering one important question, why volunteer? My family is why. My late grandfather, who I sadly did not have the pleasure of meeting, struggled with heart disease and had two heart attacks. He had open-heart surgery at 43 and unfortunately passed away at 58. As my mom tells me, though, by the end of his life, the doctors said he was still holding on because of his will to live. Typically, a person with a heart that’s unhealthy would not have lasted as long as he did. This does not surprise me at all to hear how strong of a man he was. My mother is the most courageous and positive person I know, and this seems to be telling of how she was raised. I have a deep love and passion for family and our values and am proud to know that my grandfather certainly had a “heart of gold.” Knowing my grandpa died so young, I try my best to live a healthy lifestyle and take care of myself. I make sure to go on walks in the park or go to the gym, eat a balanced diet, and go to the doctor for yearly checkups. I certainly encourage others to do the same. 

I have a great deal of respect and gratitude for current patients and survivors and I believe those with heart conditions actually have the most beautiful hearts. I volunteer to give back to and support those who struggle with this disease and encourage them that they will get through it. Seeing teams come together at Heart Walks is admirable and solidifies to me why family will always be the most important part of my life. 

To learn more ways on how you can get involved or volunteer at a local event, visit https://www.heart.org/.  

The views, opinions and positions expressed within these guest posts are those of the author alone and do not represent those of The American Heart Association | American Stroke Association. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The copyright of this content belongs to the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with them.

The American Heart Association’s blog is not intended to provide medical advice or treatment. Only your healthcare provider can provide that. The American Heart Association recommends that you consult your healthcare provider regarding your personal health matters. If you think you are having a heart attack, stroke or another emergency, please call 911 immediately.

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