Amanda Rees

My reason for participating in this challenge ❤️

Why I’m participating in the 90 KM Challenge for Heart & Stroke this September ❤️

Heart disease and stroke have affected my family for generations. Both of my parents had heart attacks in their 50s. My mom required a triple bypass and unfortunately suffered a stroke during the surgery. My dad also had a heart attack and needed a stent.

Other family members, including my aunt and uncle, have also battled heart disease. Sadly, we lost my grandfather to heart disease.

Then, unexpectedly, it became my story.

On July 1, I had a heart attack at just 46 years old—only one month before my 47th birthday. What made it even more shocking was that I didn’t have the typical warning signs or risk factors I thought would put someone at risk. I didn’t have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

I spent several days in the hospital and eventually saw a cardiologist on July 7. During my cardiac testing, it was discovered that I had a significant blockage and I needed a stent. Even my cardiologist was surprised that someone my age, without the usual risk factors, needed one.

I’ve asked myself so many times: Why did this happen to me, and why so young?

With my strong family history, I’ve learned that genetics can play a major role in cardiovascular disease, and that heart disease can develop long before we ever realize there is a problem. It has made me realize just how important research, prevention, early detection, and awareness really are.

That’s why I’m taking on the 90 KM Challenge for Heart & Stroke this September.

This challenge means so much more to me than simply reaching 90 kilometres. It is part of my rehabilitation and recovery after my heart attack, and it has given me something positive to work toward. It has been an incredible motivator to keep moving, keep rebuilding my strength, and keep believing in what my body can do.

Most importantly, I’m doing this to help raise money for heart disease and stroke research, so hopefully fewer families have to experience what mine has.

I am incredibly grateful for all of the encouragement and support I’ve received so far. Every kilometre, every donation, every message, and every person cheering me on means more than you know.

❤️ For my family. For my recovery. And for a healthier future for all of us.

If you’d like to support my 90 KM Challenge, every donation makes a difference. Thank you for being part of my journey. ❤️