JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —
February is Heart Month, and the American Heart Association is intensifying its efforts to raise awareness about heart health.
At the forefront of this campaign is Heather Lister, who turned a personal tragedy into a powerful mission. After losing her father to a heart attack at the age of 44, Lister found herself at a crossroads.
"I gave him CPR, and he was gone by the time the EMT got there," Lister said.
Fueled by the haunting memory of his last breath, Lister became a tireless advocate for her own heart health.
"I was concerned about the family history, and it was dismissed!" Lister told First Coast News.
Undeterred, Lister sought a second opinion. Her instincts proved right—something wasn't right.
"They ran tests on me and I was diagnosed with aortic aneurysm," Lister said.
Despite her children being a top priority, Lister underwent open-heart surgery, a life-altering decision made to ensure her own well-being.
"Once I had a plan, it gave me the peace to know I can be there for my kids," Lister said.
Family support became a cornerstone of Lister's resilience. Recognizing that the journey to heart health should not be traveled alone, she became a pillar of strength for those around her.
"Once you're at the doctor, make sure that you have the conviction to advocate for yourself," Lister emphasizes.
Thanks to the American Heart Association, Lister took her commitment a step further by starting her own heart health event. This initiative creates a space for education, awareness and mutual support within the community, ensuring that no one faces the journey to heart health alone.