Foundation Research Keeps my Dad Alive

I really want to tell you about my dad. When he was born, his heart had lots of big holes in it and the valves were switched. He had many operations when he was little and got his first pacemaker before I was even born.

I love my dad so much! Last Christmas, his heart was beating really fast and we had to go to the hospital. We didn’t know what was going on. I was really scared.

Thanks to Heart and Stroke Foundation research, doctors are trying to improve the technology that helps my dad’s heart, but it’s not there yet. I know that if he didn’t have his pacemaker, he could die. So we need to keep the research going to figure it out.

I’m really thankful for the research that makes it possible for my dad to live, so my brother and I want to help. We fundraise for the Heart and Stroke Foundation by participating in Jump Rope for Heart at our school. I found out that the money we raise really makes a difference.

For example, the Foundation funds research to find better treatments and ways to prevent heart disease and stroke like performing life-saving surgery on the tiniest hearts – like my dad’s when he was a baby. The Foundation is also bringing awareness about helping kids stay active and eat healthy and about the need for Automated External Defibrillators in public places so people don’t die of cardiac arrest. None of this would be possible without supporters like you who make donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

One day, my dad could have his pacemaker removed – but right now the technology is just not available. My dad and I hope that in a few years, if lots of people help, researchers will find the answers.

THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU PUT YOUR HEART INTO IT.

Please give generously today.