As many of you know, I live with heart disease.  It's the one gift from my family that keeps on giving.  In a "weird" way, I feel it bonds me with the people I love the most in life.  My beloved Grandmother, "Mama Williams,"  died from heart failure.  I have lost many relatives to the disease.  In fact, last March I lost my Aunt Lula.  Then, in October her husband, Uncle TJ, died from heart failure.  My cousin, Paul, died in December.  Then, my Uncle Butch, died in February.  In December of 2005, I lost my Aunt Dee.  These are just a few of my family members who have lived with time bombs in their chests.  My mother and several of her siblings live with heart disease, too.  So, it's a family affair!

     That's why I continue to support any effort to raise awareness of heart disease and money to support research and medicine to combat this thief. 

     I was so proud to participate in the kickoff of Downtown Elementary School's "Jump/Hoop for Heart" fundraiser.  Students are jumping rope and playing basketball to raise money.  I was the guest speaker.  I also gave each class money to "jumpstart" this year's fundraiser.  It's important for children to get in some form of exercise everyday.  That may be a walk with Mom or Dad.  It can be running up the block and back.  It can be a family game of kickball.  Do something! 

    Thanks Coach Hill for inviting me!  Take a look at my experience at Downtown Elementary..http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=309751@video.abc24.com