JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 18, 2024 – Stephanie Faul, spontaneous coronary arterial dissection heart attack survivor, has been recognized as the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, 2024 Leaders of Impact™ winner for her efforts fostering equitable cardiovascular health.
“Stephanie and all of our nominees' steadfast efforts are helping to ensure everyone across the First Coast has equitable opportunities for a longer, healthier life,” said Caitlin Brunell, executive director for the American Heart Association, First Coast. “By ensuring access to quality healthcare and addressing health disparities we are strengthening our collective future, creating a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.1 Moreover, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to newly published projections from the American Heart Association.
In the span of seven weeks, Faul participated in a fundraising competition alongside six other First Coast trailblazers. She was named the 2024 Leaders of Impact winner after amassing the greatest financial support among local nominees.
“As a survivor, serving as a Leaders of Impact nominee was deeply personal. My life took an unexpected turn when, just five weeks postpartum, I experienced a (SCAD) Spontaneous Coronary Arterial Dissection, heart attack. This rare condition led to double bypass open-heart surgery, despite having no prior heart issues," said Faul. "Through my journey, I have become a passionate advocate for heart health and want to share my story to help others. With resilience and determination, together we can make a lasting impact in the fight against heart disease."
For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has driven change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, educating healthcare professionals and patients, and advocating for healthy policies.
Leaders of Impact launched on Oct. 17 in hundreds of cities across the nation and culminated on Dec. 4. Each nominee’s participation is focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise critical awareness and to fund the mission of the American Heart Association.
Other local nominees included:
- Karen Patino, Jacksonville Business Journal
- Katie Garner, WJXT
- Kristina Barry, TriageLogic
- Kitty Ferrell, Baptist Medical Center South and Clay
- Noah DuCasse, Bank of America, F45
- Tiffany Green, Postpartum Support International
For more information about Leaders of Impact and a list of the 2024 nominees, please visit leadersofimpact.heart.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Emma Richards: emma.richards@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org