In spring 2016, I experienced heart-related symptoms that did not seem serious at first. Delaying care nearly cost me my life. One day, while feeling unwell, I walked downstairs and was struck by severe pain in my arm and across my back. My family rushed me to the emergency room as the intense pain continued in waves. Doctors confirmed that I was having a heart attack and stabilized me before performing cardiac catheterization. During the catheterization, the cardiologist informed me that I had 95% blockage in four arteries and that he needed to install a pump to keep me stable before I had heart bypass surgery.
The surgery itself was easier than the recovery that followed. I needed a blood transfusion, and my organs began to shut down from the severe trauma of the procedure. I will never forget the night the doctor rushed in and the medical team worked urgently to stabilize me; the fear in her eyes terrified me. That night, they inserted a tube to drain my stomach. After 14 days in the ICU, I was finally able to go home. The experience had a profound physical and emotional impact on me.
This experience taught me how quickly life can change and how deeply patients depend on medical research and lifesaving care. Recognizing that advances in treatment require sustained funding, I became a strong advocate for supporting research. The fear I felt after surgery remains with me today, as does my profound gratitude for the friends, family, doctors, and nurses who cared for me.
You may wonder why I am raising funds for the American Heart Association through the Leaders of Impact campaign. These donations support scientific research, CPR education, and access to lifesaving care. They also help advance groundbreaking innovations that could make bypass surgery less invasive and save more lives. I hope your loved ones never have to endure the frightening and painful experience I faced. You can help others with donations to my campaign. Heart disease affects families, workplaces, and entire communities. Help me fight back!
Leaders of Impact Campaign
I am bringing together friends, colleagues, and businesses to support the American Heart Association through the Leaders of Impact 2026 campaign, running September 17–November 4. This initiative is deeply personal because I have experienced the devastating effects of heart disease firsthand. Your support will help me raise critical funds for scientific research, CPR education, and equitable health care. Together, we can build a healthier community for everyone. Connect me with people at your company who lead community outreach and support causes like this. Donate any amount to make a real difference in your community and beyond by joining my team or donating.
Here's how you can help:
Donate Today: Make a tax-deductible donation to the American Heart Association on my fundraising page.
Double Your Impact: Check if your company offers a matching gift program and consider doubling your donation through your employer.
Spread the Word: Share this message with your network to amplify our reach and impact.
Click here to donate today:
http://www2.heart.org/goto/drewjohnson
Together, we can create a healthier future for everyone, everywhere. Helping others get the second chance I’m grateful to have received. Thank you for your support!
