Heart Disease Survivor, Jen
Jen went from having a baby to being on life support. With the help of the American Heart Association, she is here to watch her kids grow up. That’s why it’s personal.
Survivor Spotlight: Jen
Shortly after giving birth, Jen couldn’t breathe. She had no previous heart issues.

“The breaking point came when I was trying to walk up just one flight of stairs at our house. I couldn’t make it. That’s when we decided to go to the hospital.”
She is rushed to emergency room, and it’s discovered she needs a heart transplant.

“When I received my diagnosis, it was a big shock. I was instantly worried about my family and my kids — what was going to happen to them.”
Her treatment plan was based on research funded by the AHA.

“I am very grateful for my heart donor and their family. I am very thankful for the American Heart Association. I am grateful for every day that I get.”
The Impact of the American Heart Association
Every dollar you give helps save lives through:
- Innovative research and medical breakthroughs such as the artificial heart valve
- Improving quality of care in hospitals in your community
- Training of more than 22 million people annually in lifesaving CPR
- Education that helps people prevent, detect and treat high blood pressure
- Instilling heart-healthy lifestyle for more than 20 million children at 30,000 schools each year
She’s still here—and gets to be mom.
“I’m really glad I’m here to take care of my children and be with them every day.”
— Jen, heart disease survivor
Benefits of Becoming a Monthly Donor

Early access to new research and guidelines for living a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Exclusive quarterly impact report delivered to your inbox.

Special invitations to conversations with AHA leadership and experts.
The American Heart Association helped save my life.
Meet our Survivors
-
Experience Dra’s survival story
-
Check out Finn’s story
-
Jeff, Heart Disease Survivor
-
Hear from Jen, heart disease survivor
-
Watch Heather’s story
-
Tessa shares her stroke survival story