My name is Heather, and I’m preparing for open heart surgery on June 4th. The procedure will include mitral valve replacement, tricuspid valve replacement, MAZE, and left atrial appendage ligation, all through open sternotomy. There’s also a chance I’ll need a pacemaker afterwards. It’s a lot to take in, and while I’m hopeful, I know the recovery will be long and challenging. It will be months where I won’t be able to lift more than a small cup of water or resume normal activities.

Afterward, I’ll need to focus on healing, both physically and mentally, without the stress of rent or groceries hanging over my head. The goal is that by 4-8 months I can get back to acting, dancing, and all the things I love without the constant worry of my heart being a ticking time bomb.

Financial support will help me cover daily expenses and give me the freedom to focus on recovery. Any support means the world to me as I face this major surgery and the months ahead. Your help will give me peace of mind and the chance to return to the things I love, without fear. :)