Losing my mom and my sister Kyla to a heart attack and a stroke in 2021 changed my life forever. In the middle of grief, confusion, and heartbreak, I searched for a way to honour them while protecting my own health. That journey led me to running – and to the incredible work being done by the Heart & Stroke Foundation to close the health equity gap faced by women in Canada. Today, every kilometre I run, every race I train for, and every story I share is a way to carry forward their legacy of kindness, strength, and generosity.
What began as a way to cope with overwhelming loss quickly became a passion that reshaped my life. Running offered a healthy emotional outlet during one of the most difficult periods I’ve ever faced. I also used running as a way to decrease my risk for cardiovascular disease.
It didn’t take me long to fall in love with long-distance running. Races gave me a chance to explore new cities, connect with other runners, and feel the power of a community striving together toward something meaningful.
When I decided to run the 2022 Royal Victoria Marathon while raising money in their name and
bring awareness to a cause so close to my heart, I felt like I was able to do something to keep their legacy of kindness and philanthropy alive.
Photo: Running the Royal Victoria Marathon with my partner Michael
What I’m Working Toward
This year, as I prepare to run the 2026 BMO Vancouver Marathon, my goal is simple but meaningful: to raise awareness for women’s heart and brain health and highlight the vital research underway at Heart & Stroke.
I also hope to inspire others navigating grief to find their own healthy outlets – ways to honour loved ones while caring for themselves.
I’ve become deeply committed to using my voice and experience to raise awareness of cardiovascular risks and the inequities women face in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. That passion also guided me toward a career in healthcare. Becoming a nurse has given me the platform to advocate for change and support others through their most vulnerable moments.
Photo: Speaking at a Heart & Stroke event with my husband
The Support Behind Every Step
I would not be where I am without my family. They are my biggest cheerleaders, reminding me constantly that my mom and Kyla would be proud of how far I’ve come.
The Support Behind Every Step
I would not be where I am without my family. They are my biggest cheerleaders, reminding me constantly that my mom and Kyla would be proud of how far I’ve come.
My husband Michael has been especially supportive – running beside me, encouraging me through injuries and setbacks, and literally holding my hand across finish lines. Six weeks before my first halfmarathon, I broke my foot. He stayed with me stepbystep until we crossed together.
Why This Journey Matters
Running helps me reduce my own risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. My training isn’t perfect, but it’s meaningful. I’ve run races after recovering from broken bones and viral infections. I’ve built plans that include 2–3 runs per week, including one longer run, plus crosstraining like cycling, weightlifting, or stair work to strengthen the muscles that support my legs.
I also keep movement fun by hiking, paddleboarding, and doing morning yoga – because joy is
just as important as discipline.
On top of training, I support that with a healthy pescatarian diet, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and regular cholesterol checks. But above all, I run to raise awareness – because too many women are still unaware of their risks.
If more people understand the signs, the risk factors, and the importance of research, then we can help prevent tragedies like the ones that changed my life.
Support Heart & Stroke through the BMO Vancouver Marathon – donate, join the team, or run alongside Angie Seeber to make every step count.