According to the American Heart Association, a loved one dies from cardiovascular disease every 40 seconds – that’s about 800,000 people every year! How in the HEALTH does that happen?
In 2011, I lost one of the people dearest to me as a result of complications from a cardiovascular disease. After my grandmother’s death, I was determined to educate as many people as I could regarding heart disease and heart health.
Click here to learn more about Heart Conditions and Stroke.
⚠️ Warning Signs
Stroke (F.A.S.T.)
- Face Drooping
- Arm Weakness
- Speech Difficultly
- Time to call 911
Heart Attack
- Chest Discomfort
- Upper Body Discomfort
- Shortness of Breath

Prevention
- Visit your doctor annually for a blood pressure check and lab work to check your cholesterol (triglycerides) and blood sugar (hemoglobin A1-C) levels.
- Know your predisposition to cardiovascular disease. If high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease or stroke are prevalent in your family, visit your doctor for regular check-ups.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products. Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Stay active (recommended: 30 minutes of physical activity per day) and maintain a healthy diet with limited salt intake.
- Reduce stress and get plenty of rest.

Photos courtesy of Yasmin Watts
Instagram: @yasminwattsphotography