Liz Bearss

For Dad ❤️

Four years ago, my dad had a heart attack that left him on maximum life support: a balloon heart pump, intubation, dialysis, and countless medications working to keep him alive.

Over the next eight weeks, with the help of these medical interventions, his body slowly began to heal and recover. But during that time, while in an induced coma, he also suffered a stroke. That stroke left him bedridden for the next two years.

Through it all, his spirit stayed strong. He never once complained about what he had been through.

Two years ago, he suffered another heart attack, and this time, he didn’t make it.

The technology and treatments that gave us more time with him were made possible through research and funding from the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

What this experience taught me is just how important awareness and prevention are. Heart disease and stroke can affect anyone, and while we can’t control everything, there are steps we can take to support our health.

Simple things like staying active, getting regular check-ups, managing stress, and making time for movement, even daily walks, can have a meaningful impact.

That’s why I’m taking part in this April walking challenge. I’m raising awareness in memory of my dad, and to encourage others to take small steps toward supporting their heart health.

Because prevention matters. And sometimes, those small steps can make a big difference. ❤️