Yesterday, I had the incredible honor of visiting the Golden Triangle Rotary Club in Keller, Texas, and it’s a morning I won’t soon forget.
Let’s start with the fact that this group of amazing humans meets at 7:00 AM — now that’s commitment! The venue was the cozy and delicious DeVivo Bros Eatery, where the coffee was hot, the food was satisfying, and the conversation even warmer.
Beating the Dallas Traffic for a Greater Cause
My day began around 4:45 AM to make the two-hour trek through the unpredictability of Dallas rush hour traffic. And while the roads were packed, the reason for my journey made every mile worth it.
I was invited to speak about my cardiac arrest experience — a moment in my life that changed everything. Being able to share my story during CPR & AED Awareness Week gave it even more purpose. My goal was not just to recount a personal health crisis, but to inspire, inform, and empower people to take action — to learn CPR, recognize warning signs, and understand the life-saving importance of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
A Morning Filled with Connection, Curiosity & Community
From the moment I walked into the room, the energy was uplifting. Everyone welcomed me with open arms, early-morning smiles, and genuine interest. I could immediately sense the Rotary spirit of service and compassion.
As I shared my journey — from the sudden event of cardiac arrest to the long road of recovery and reflection — I looked around and saw heads nodding, hands over hearts, and a level of empathy that reminded me why I tell this story in the first place.
Afterward, I had the chance to answer thoughtful, insightful questions from the members. These weren’t just curious minds — they were community leaders who wanted to better understand how to protect their families, their colleagues, and their neighbors.
Why CPR & AED Awareness Matters Now More Than Ever
Every minute counts when someone goes into cardiac arrest. Immediate CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. AEDs, when used correctly, can restore a normal heartbeat before emergency services arrive. These are powerful tools — but only if people are trained and confident enough to use them.
That’s why platforms like this — speaking at Rotary Clubs, schools, local businesses, or community centers — are vital. Awareness saves lives. Empowerment changes outcomes.
Gratitude for the Golden Triangle Rotary Club
To the members of the Golden Triangle Rotary Club — thank you. Thank you for being early risers. Thank you for being engaged citizens. And most importantly, thank you for the work you do every day to uplift and support your community in Keller and beyond.
Your passion for service, your hospitality, and your willingness to have honest conversations about health and preparedness made this an unforgettable morning.
One moment that especially touched me: I found out that the Golden Triangle Rotary Club donates $100 to a charity of the speaker’s choice. I was moved by this generous tradition — and without hesitation, I chose the American Heart Association.
To me, that wasn’t just a donation — it was a symbol of full-circle support. From experiencing cardiac arrest to now advocating for heart health awareness, it meant the world to have that support passed forward in such a meaningful way.
Golden Triangle Rotary Club, thank you for leading with both heart and action. 💖
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
If you’re reading this and haven’t yet learned CPR or located your nearest AED — now is the time. There’s no better time than CPR & AED Awareness Week to take action.
You never know whose life you might save — or how deeply you might inspire someone just by showing up and sharing from the heart.
