In May, I will be running the Ottawa Marathon for the third consecutive year.

Last year, I ran in honour of my dad, who passed of a heart attack in 2021. This year, I am running to share my personal story and spread awareness for heart health.

In November of 2024, I had a stroke, cause by a hole in my heart that I wasn't aware of until earlier this year. Navigating the tests, uncertainty, and the reality of what happened has been overwhelming at times.

It hasn't been a straight line, there has been a lot 'you're too young to have a stroke' or 'you're too healthy and active to have these problems.' It was recently revealed through an MRI that the stroke has left brain damage, and there is still work

By sharing my story, I want to raise awareness for young adults facing heart-related conditions and remind people that symptoms shouldn’t be ignored even when you’re 'too young.' If my journey encourages even one person to listen to their body or seek help sooner, it’s worth it.

The Ottawa Heart Institute has been wonderful. Their expertise helped uncover what was missed, guided my next steps, and gave me a path forward.

In 2026, I’ll be running again with gratitude, determination, and a whole lot of heart. Thank you for supporting my fundraising and for standing with me.