GotAED
Dear Friends,
When I first met Darren Sudman in 2019, like most people, I asked: “How can I help?”. And then, in 2020, I threw my hat in the ring for a role that would change my life. I am so lucky to have led Simon’s Heart and work alongside Darren and Phyllis Sudman, volunteers, and our team. It’s been an amazing ride, filled with powerful moments and incredible people. As we wrap heart month, it’s bittersweet to share that I have accepted a new role in Philadelphia.
I’ve been deeply moved by the stories of children who left us too soon because of heart conditions that could have been treated or detected: Simon (3 months old), Blake (17), Bailey (16), Elijah (12), Caroline (19), Rafe (15), and Jayden (12). I never met these kids, but their stories and the photos their parents shared will always be with me. Their names echo in my mind whenever I think about how much one person’s voice can matter in pushing to protect hearts and save lives.
I’ve also been inspired by survivors who’ve touched our lives and pushed our mission forward: Katie Asper, Journey Brown, Kai Bates-Diop, Caleb Datto, Melissa Fair, Jack Forti, Drew Harrington, Whitney Jones, Alaysia Keeley, Annie Kelly, Valerie Krawitz, Noah Lorencovitz, Danielle Mundondo, Alana Mundondo, Maeve Quinn, and Zach Steffens. They beat the odds, and they’ve joined us in fighting to prevent sudden cardiac death in our children.
Simon’s Heart has impacted my little family forever. This journey has been a wonderful experience and I know you’re in good hands. Lexi Simchak and Katherine Christen are ready to keep things moving along, and Darren and Phyllis Sudman are as supportive as ever. A huge thank you to each of our volunteers, board members, medical team, and student ambassadors for your incredible dedication all because of one little boy.
You each play a crucial role in our mission, and I am so grateful for everything you’ve done.
Thank you for protecting hearts and saving lives,
Warmly,
Jenn
