My Heart~My Life

Love Your Heart Expo, Adventist Healthcare

2012-02-11T23:06:00.000-05:00

Speaking with Dr Micheal Chen and one of my favorite cardiologist!

Another day in the life and how fun! I woke up today to my Saturday family breakfast followed by a movie. I do admit it love Saturdays.

With Judy Litchy who I think the world of! The Adventist team is amazing!

Today, I was honored to have been invited to speak at the "Love Your Heart Expo" for Adventist Healthcare. I did realize today that I am much need of a spray tan especially against anything black. My dress was again black but I did sport some fun shoes. My fettish.

I did not ask for this picture to be taken but thought it was funny when I saw it. Yes, I love my shoes!

I arrived prior to noon and the expo started at 1. The line was already 10 feet deep! As a heart attack survivor it is so important to get screened and know your numbers. What is MOST important is to understand what they mean.

Dr Mike Chen and I presented around 2pm and yes, I am predjudice. He saved my life and I also happen to think he is amazing in a very humble way. His adorable daughter was there also. Truly a family man.

I also had the pleasure of meeting Bill Roberton, President of Adventist and what an amazing and kind man.

with Amy Carrier, AVP of Cardiovascular and Vascular Services, Adventist Healthcare and a supporter of the American Heart Associations GWR Heartwalk (and a fabulous person)

It was also great to catch up with good friends

Thank you to Adventist for including me...I am honored

2012-02-11T10:09:00.000-05:00

Although yesterday started out feeling like a Monday and quite comical at times, it ended on a high note as I was one of the emcee's for the Crystal Couture Fashion Show and Go Red Casting on Alexandria, Va. I'll start in the beginning. Now most people know that my pets mean the world to me and my little Halo (a LLASHA POO) holds a very special place in my heart. We have travelled all of the world together and was given to me by my Mom after my Dad passed. She is around 8lbs of love or 10lbs after a day of being spoiled. Carter had a pediatric appointment yesterday at a speciality clinic up in Baltimore so in all of my devote wisdom I thought I would bring the pups along for the ride. A 4 hour ride which included a 2 hour clinic appointment. It was chilly but not cold so I dressed Halo and Jack (a Portuguese Water Dog) in their coats and loaded the family up in the car. The ride up was fine and of course I was late due to a car accident but we arrived. I was not going to miss this appointment. There is a 6mos waiting list!!!

When I left the appointment I let the pups go to the bathroom after smelling something questionable in the car. Well, Halo had a upset stomach to say the least...A REALLY UPSET STOMACH if you know what I mean. Really....in the car...come on!!!!! Love prevails, the world was clean again and off we drove to head back home. After a quick stop of course to McDonald's to pick up water, diet coke and chicken for the family because hey, if her stomach is upset why not give her more food?

Once we all were settled back in the house which was no easy task, I put Carter down for a nap and started to get ready for my evening. Just on a side not, Carter was measured at 3 feet, 2 inches yesterday. He is only three!!!!! So proud of him.

I pulled out an array of choices for the evening and was so excited that I was able to fit into a black strapless dress that I wore at my rehearsal dinner for my wedding. Then I bent over and heard a rip. I didn't feel the cool of wisp of air that one usually might feel so I had been saving by the sturdiness of the fabric. It was part of the silk lining....so lesson...I still have a way to go to my goal weight.....come on treadmill...WORK WITH ME!!!!!

Carter and I headed out and met Daddy in Crystal City for the event. I was so excited to see my International family and AHA family. Everyone looked GREAT. Miss Virginia, Krystin Admire and Margo Huffman, Miss Teen Maryland were already helping out with the Go Red Casting. Ciji Dodds, Miss International and Alison Hill, Miss Southeast International 2012 shortly arrived. Ciji helped me emcee the second half of the fashion show and was an amazing co-host. I had so much fun that when 10pm rolled around it caught me off guard.

I have "some" photos but their were a lot taken. There were some challenges with my camera. There was an "official" photographer taking photos with his camera yet every time he took one with mine, the photo included his finger. Go finger...I mean go figure:))))

So a busy, crazy and wonderful day! Thank you for all who came out and shared their story on heart health and joining us for this exciting night of festivities.

Unanswered calls

2012-02-05T19:45:00.001-05:00

I am a firm believer that you make time for what you want to or you just make excuses. I said the same thing back when I dated. I mean really...if you really wanted to speak with someone you you would answer or call back, right?

2012-02-03T23:14:00.000-05:00

Today was a busy day but a really good one! It started out in Winchester, VA were I visit a Belk store who is supporting AHA with its sale of hearts! So shop until you drop this month!!!! I then went and spoke on Fox 5 with Dr Bennett on Women and Heart Disease.

Tonight I was honored to be the Key Note speaker at the Red Dress Benefit for KOGOD Women in business. It was a great day to go RED!!!! Tomorrow off to Macy's for the Go Red Fashion Show!

WTOP Interview

2012-02-03T14:41:00.002-05:00

Heart disease biggest killer of women over 20

Friday - 2/3/2012, 4:53am ET

Paula Wolfson, wtop.com

WASHINGTON -- It's the only muscle in the human body that is never at rest. And yet, American women know very little about their hearts.

Statistics show heart disease is the biggest killer of women over 20, and the real tragedy is many of the deaths are preventable.

Survivors and supporters are wearing red on the first Friday in February to call attention to the disease. Like the pink ribbons worn for breast cancer, red dresses have become symbols of the fight against heart disease.

"Red for the heart," said Deanna Linz, a development director with the American Heart Association of Greater Washington.

Linz said the goal of the "Go Red for Women" campaign, which began in 2004, has always been to call attention to the threat heart disease poses to women.

"You would be surprised the people out there who really don't recognize their own personal signs and symptoms of heart disease."

Linz said she was caught by surprise two years ago when she had a heart attack shortly after the birth of her first child.

She says she will be wearing red on behalf of her parents, who both died of heart problems at a relatively young age.

"I am also wearing red for my son, wearing red for my husband and I am wearing red for all the survivors that are out there making a difference every single day."

Eileen Williams of Manassas, Va. also is a part of that "sisterhood" of survivors. She said the sisterhood is on a mission to spread the word about women and heart disease, 365 days a year.

Williams said other women listen to the ladies in red.

"We have lots of credibility ... and some of us have scars to prove it."

Here are some of the events this month in the D.C. area:

"Girls with Guitars and a Piano Man" concert -- Feb. 3 at the Fillmore in Silver Spring;

"Red Hot Night and Go Red Casting Call" -- Feb. 10 in Crystal City;

"Love Your Heart Expo" -- Feb. 11 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Montgomery Mall, sponsored by Washington Adventist Hospital, Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, Adventist Heath Care and WTOP. Includes free health screenings.

"The D.C. Heart Ball" -- Feb. 25 at the Ritz Carlton in Tysons Corner.

Follow WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

Tags: paula wolfson, heart disease

2012-02-02T21:46:00.000-05:00

There was a time many years ago that I believed in a dream. I remember my Dad saying to me its the moment you choose to believe that makes the difference. I know at times he doubted me, heck I did too, but those moments he did were like gold.

One of my favorite quotes is from my Dad and "Flashdance" :). when you give up your dreams you die.

In 2001, my Dad passed...at 54...two weeks and a mitro valve later.

In 2006 after a double valve replacement, multiple bypasses my Mother passed.

Skip killed himself 2 months later.

Its always hard to understand and even harder to really share when you have no real reasons why.I mean who really wants this in there life?

This forces me to evaluate. Don't we love that word? I hate that I had a heart attack, I hate that I am scared EVERY day that my son may loose his Mom and most of all I hate feeling sorry for myself.

I hate feeling alone and thats a feeling I NEVER want my son to feel. This is why I go red. To never feel alone and so he wont either.

2012-01-06T13:08:00.002-05:00

I cannot believe its 2012. The time passes so quickly. It seems like it was just yesterday when I was a young girl (ok maybe not yesterday) living in Ohio, Michigan,Georgia, Florida, Nevada, California, Florida again, Georgia again, Illinois, Florida again, Tennessee, Florida again, South Carolina, Florida again,Georgia again,Tennessee again, Germany, Florida again, Germany again, Alabama and now....MARYLAND! Whew and that was all just yesterday:) Time does fly!

In all of my travels one of biggest lesson I have learned is to embrace the journey. The places I listed above are places I "lived" but I have been blessed to have been able to travel to so many more and I am so grateful for that. The people I have met along my journey have helped to shape me into who I am. They also have been a support for me when I needed it, family when I was missing mine and heros when I need that inspiration.

http://www.e-pages.dk/postnewsweekmedia/141/

I was featured cover story for Gazette Health this month. When I was reading it last night it reminded me of my journey. Like most, my journey has included loss, heart break and health issues for myself as well as family and friends. It reminded me that we should embrace each day for the day it is and don't look back in fear but ahead with the lessons I have learned a long the way. Health is a vital part of those lessons.

As national heart month approaches and National Go Red Day approaches, FEBRUARY 3, 2012, its important to remember to embrace your journey and take charge of your life and your health.

So in 2012...HERE'S TO YOUR HEALTH.....and don't forget to always listen to your heart.

Thank you to Gazette Health, Cardiac Associates and Adventist Healthcare allowing me to share my story.

Deanna Linz

Mrs Maryland International 2012

2011-12-11T10:20:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I am jet lagged...my tweeter post...well tired! Well I was and then I arrived at Patterson Patk Charter School in Baltimore, MD. It is a City school and one with so much pride. It is a city school in Baltimore and apparently one with a huge waiting list. I could certainly see why. We were invited to career day at the school. We were able to speak to 2nd graders and 7th graders. I love the enthusiam and the questions. Some were about my career in non profit with the American Heart Association but many were also about pageantry and the crown. One of my favorite questions was if my crown was real diamonds:)

A very large part of what I do is about the mission of heart. That includes a huge problem facing young people today which is childhood obesity. When I ask what they wanted for Christmas, 99% mentioned electronic games. Although some exercise can be had with some of the newer games it did make me wonder what ever happed to asking for a bike or skates!! The best gift I ever got was a pair of skates. I was soooo excited and I am sure my parents loved that it got me outside exercising every day.

I felt to honored to have been asked and excited to be involved again. They are the next generation and I can personally say I was sooooo impressed and inspired.The future is truly looking bright!

2011-12-09T00:47:00.003-05:00

How it all began with the American Heart Association

History is the foundation of everything we are and why in often times we do what we do. I visited the American Heart Association's National Center for the past two days for training in Dallas and it reminded me of the most important fact and why I am here, its about the mission. I am mission driven and I have always said that. This time of year just further reminds me of that as my parents are no longer here and my Mom's Birthday was Dec 22nd. She passed from Cardiovascular Disease.

It was a great trip for so many reasons. It was culminated by an amazing story from one of our national consultants named Coker. Yes, that is possibly one of the best names ever. She was speaking about why the mission is important to her, why we ask people to walk, be involved and be engaged. She lost her Father right after her wedding and he was in the ICU during the wedding due to heart disease. There was history prior but this further solidified her mission in the mission. As she was speaking about her Brother walking her down the isle I was reminded of my wedding. My Brother walked me down the isle also. Her Father recently passed from CVD. It was an inspiring story in regards to the mission but a sad face of reality. It also reminded me again why we do what we do at heart. We save lives and yes, one of them was my own.

The center had a lot of history and the passion of the mission was everywhere so I have to share a few photos.

As Christmas and Hanukkah is knocking on our door, lets work together to save lives. Heart is just that...heart...with heart....

I also wanted to share the AHA history and how it became. Heart Disease IS the number one killer of men and Women in American. I know to some that's just a statistic but to so many, it is reality.

A pioneering group of physicians and social workers formed the first Association for the Prevention and Relief of Heart Disease in New York City in 1915. They were concerned about the lack of heart disease information. At that time, heart disease patients were considered doomed, limited to complete bed rest. So these physicians conducted studies in New York City and Boston to find out whether heart disease patients could safely return to work. Similar groups in Boston, Philadelphia and Chicago evolved into heart associations in the 1920s.

Interest spread widely in other cities across the United States and Canada. Recognizing the need for a national organization to share research findings and promote further study, six cardiologists representing several groups founded the American Heart Association in 1924. The founding members were Drs. Lewis A. Conner and Robert H. Halsey of New York; Paul D. White of Boston; Joseph Sailer of Philadelphia; Robert B. Preble of Chicago; and Hugh D. McCulloch of St. Louis. Drs. James B. Herrick of Chicago and William S. Thayer of Baltimore were also instrumental in the early planning. Dr. White, president of the AHA in 1941, once described the early years as a time of "almost unbelievable ignorance" about heart disease. The early efforts of the American Heart Association to overcome that ignorance included enlisting help from hundreds, then thousands, of physicians and scientists.

By the late 1930s, AHA members began considering ways to expand their activities to reach the general public. In 1946 the American Legion donated $50,000 to the AHA for research and to develop a community rheumatic fever program. Public support and funds established this and other programs. To broaden its scope, the AHA reorganized in 1948 and brought in non-medical volunteers with skills in business management, communication, public education, community organization and fund raising.

The American Heart Association made its public debut in late 1948 during a network radio contest, "The Walking Man," on the "Truth or Consequences" program hosted by Ralph Edwards. Millions of Americans sent contributions to the AHA along with guesses on the walking man's identity. The effort netted $1.75 million before Jack Benny was identified as the "Walking Man."

A small national staff in New York City then began to organize American Heart Association divisions across the country. They launched the first national fund-raising campaign the following year in February 1949, raising $2.7 million.

The American Heart Association's Growth

Since 1949, the American Heart Association has grown rapidly in size, financial resources, involvement with medical and non-medical volunteers, and influence -- both nationally and internationally. The AHA moved the National Center from New York City to Dallas in 1975 to better serve affiliates and local divisions nationwide. The volunteer-led affiliates and their divisions form a national network of local AHA organizations involved in providing research, education, and community programs and in raising money to support the association's work. The network continues to gain strength as it expands at the grass-roots level.

The AHA completed significant internal changes between 1980 and 1986, allowing it to reach the public with a louder, clearer voice. During the next eight years, the association became a much more visible champion of public health. The AHA also developed guidelines for the nation's healthcare system and supported the federal government's attempt to improve access to healthcare.

At the same time, the AHA continued to strengthen its internal programs and its internal management. The association revised its mission statement and focused its planning in three areas: cardiovascular science, cardiovascular education and community programs, and fund raising efforts. Achievements included stricter research standards, new healthcare site modules, and development of several new cookbooks. Large gifts allowed the AHA to support new research projects, move all scientific staff into one building, and sponsor creative professional education programs. Efforts to include more women and minorities in the leadership ranks began to pay off by the late 1980s, resulting in more efforts to understand the effects of heart disease and stroke on women and minorities.

The mid-1990s were a time of great change in the American Heart Association. The association's scientific findings began to move more quickly from laboratories and clinics to physician's offices and American households. The AHA took positions on important issues and made clear, simple statements about controlling risk factors. Volunteers and staff agreed on a strategy for improving affiliate research programs, and the national organization created new divisions dealing with stroke and emergency cardiac care. To reduce costs and increase international circulation, the association outsourced the publication of its scientific journals and began publishing them online.

Despite strong opposition from the tobacco industry, the American Heart Association continued to be an advocate for the American public, especially children.

Finally, and most profoundly, AHA volunteers and staff began transforming the organization into an enterprise that could be vibrant and relevant in the 21st century. The change was deeper than anything since 1948, when the AHA transformed itself from a scientific society into a voluntary health agency. The first step was in identifying the organization's strategic driving force in March 1995: Providing credible heart disease and stroke information for effective prevention and treatment.

Agreement on the driving force made it clear that individual Americans, not the AHA's affiliates, were the National Center's primary audience. The new driving force altered the whole organization, which can be seen in the decision to become a single corporation in June 1997. This action reinforced the spirit of cooperation that people brought to the effort.

2011-11-17T09:11:00.000-05:00

I was so honored to be asked to judge the innagural Miss Largo High School pageant for the interview portion. I know from having been in the chair myself that one of the hardest thing to do is put yourself out their to be judged. As I was staring at the lone chair prior, I just felt for each and every contestant.

They were AMAZING. Their ages were between 15 and 18. As they walked in, each contestant just impressed me more. WOW is all I can say. We have some great leaders with this generation!!!!

I am excited to see the results on Friday night. Regardless, we all know there can be only one winner but for me, they all are.

I was also excited to have been able to spend time with my sister queen, Jennifer Williams. I love her and her passion and conviction to her platform. With each contestant, it became even more clear that bullying needs to be addressed and stopped. On all levels. She is beautiful inside and out and I am just so amazed by her. We were both Florida gals so we are forever connected:) Even if she did graduate from FSU:)

Good luck to all of the beautiful ladies on Friday night!!!! You are all true queens. Continue to believe and it can and will come true!

With sincere heart~

2011-11-14T21:38:00.000-05:00

The reality of life can be harsh. I think, ok I know, I have not moved past losing my parents. I hate to talk about it because with it is my family. My sister and brother. In life there is so many stories in every loss in life.

My sister in law and not in a mean way told me this weekend that I would pass before her because of my history. I have never felt so alone and worried for my son.

I know I am not alone in these struggles.

When my Grandpa passed I fell asleep in a chair in my living room. I woke up and I swear he was sitting across from me. He has never left me. He is with me everyday.

Christmas is hard. My Moms birthday was also Dec 22.

2011-11-14T16:18:00.001-05:00

Who does not love a morning of pampering followed by a great lunch to benefit a great cause? We had our official photo shoot for the Maryland International pageants. I know I must have scared them as I arrived makeup free and with a wet head. I am someone that is not the most naturally put together person. People tend to ask me if I am feeling ok when I have no makeup on. Thank you to the amazing talents of makeup artistry by Hassain and our fabulous hairdresser. After their hard working efforts a queen arose!!!!

After the photo shoot, Deshawn Shepard, the Director of the MD/VA pageants, Chardia Murray, Miss Maryland and I, attended the Go Red for Women Passion Luncheon in Baltimore, MD. Thank you to Annette Fisher for hosting such a great event. It was great to share stories and thoughts on women's heart health with such an amazing and inspiring group of women. Hannah Brewer Dell (who is competing in Miss MD Outstanding Teen and my pick to win:)) was also in attendance also offered some great thoughts and insight on fundraising strategies. I wish I was that AMAZING at her age!!!! Wow...and beautiful to boot!

After a full day I headed home to my first mission....Mommy!!!! It was a great day.

2011-11-07T15:49:00.001-05:00

You know that phrase, "What you don't know can kill you". This is so true which is why I recommend spreading the words about the signs and symptoms of heart disease. Tell five friends and have them tell five friends. This is how change is made.

WUSA9 is a proud sponsor in this year's heart walk! The day was amazing and we are so close to reaching our goal of 2 million dollars!!!! Did you know that 93 cents on every dollar raised for the Greater Washington Region's heart walk goes back into education, advocacy and research?

Its' not too late to make change and together we can save lives!!!!

2011-11-06T19:54:00.003-05:00

The most amazing thing about life is that we can celebrate. At times when life just beats you down, it might not feel like celebration is really in the cards. There is no one that has not felt sadness, loss and fear. Whether its losing family , a friend or your own fears its just there. There are so many days and times that we need to celebrate. Yesterday was one of them.

I am honored and blessed to be a part of the Greater Washington region's heart walk team. (VA/MD/DC). Yesterday we raised 1.8 million dollars for the American Heart Association! This is personal to me as it is to so many others.

Its hard to put a face to heart disease because we see the classic movie script. My Dad was 54 and probably would have fallen into that group but the reality is after his heart valve replacement I sat outside the hospital and took a huge breathe of relief because he made it through the surgery. Less than a week later, he never left the hospital. I don't think I have ever taken a breathe since.

Women and heart disease. Where do I even start? My Mom had her first stroke in her 30's. She was adopted so we really don't have a lot of family history on her side. At 56, a double valve replacement, multiple bypasses, she was found deceased after throwing a clot after surgery. She was taking 27 pills a day. Can we say over medicated???? Probably one of the worse calls I have ever recieved.

Two months later her lifetime friend killed himself, another face of heart disease because his heart was broken.

Yesterday Maggie Love presented on stage. She is a child survivor and such an inspiration. As I sat there looking around I saw a thousand blue sweat shirts from Lockheed Martin, hundreds from Adventist Healthcare, t shirts from MT& T, Sodexo out in force, I then saw Ashley Ingram who lost her Mom at 44, and Senator Frank Shore who is a survivor. In my life I have felt so alone when I lost my parents and then when I had my own heart attack and surgery. Even my husband asked after if I was fixed. I love him so much but fixed I am not. No one is because its always there. The fear and facing mortality.

For the first time in a long time as I stood among 8,000 advocate and survivors, I did not feel alone. It reminded me of Footprints in the sand.

One night I dreamed of walking along the shores of different lands.

I could tell that You were with me by the footprints in the sand.

As I gazed upon the heavens, I saw pages of my life.

It was then I realized that You remained there by my side.

When the clouds began to gather and the rains came falling down,

I looked to only find one set of footprints on the ground.

I said, "Lord, why did You leave me in the troubled times of life?

I believed that You would always walk beside me day and night." (Then I heard:)

"My precious child, I'd never leave you.

I have carved you on the hollow of My hand.

It's then I carried you in My arms,

When you see one set of footprints in the sand"

Dear Lord, will You be with me as I travel through the years?

Will You be there in the struggles? Will You wipe away the tears?

As my eyes turn toward the ocean and the shores of distant lands,

I'm still thinking of the single set of footprints in the sand. (I heard Him say:)

"My precious child, I'd never leave you.

I have carved you on the hollow of My hand.

It's then I carried you in My arms,

There is no face to heart disease because we don't wear it on the outside so much as we do on the inside. Its you neighbor, your friend, your Brother, Sister, Mother or Father. Its the number ONE killer of men and women in America and that is the true reality.

Thank you to all who were able to come out yesterday and those who gave to the greater washington regions heartwalk.

2011-10-26T09:25:00.002-05:00

There was a wise man who told me once, "You don't know my life". How true, how true.

People ask me about heart disease and stroke. I talk about signs, symptoms, advocacy, education, youth. Here is the unfortunate reality. PEOPLE DON"T SEE HEART DISEASE. They see a movie and in many cases it is sudden. No less scary, but sudden. The reality is that we don't "loose" anything that screams victim of heart disease. Often, we have an "episode" as the love to call a stroke or MIA but once we have surgery, everyone thinks its "fixed". Heck, I did too. We all want to put it behind us.

Here is what I see everyday when I look in the mirror. Mortality. I remember when my Mom was sick but she seemed to be the one in my mind that would push through anything. Then Lois called to tell me she was found deceased at the house. Alone. She was 56. I remember my Dad. I remember crossing the wrong bridge in the middle of the night. I remember them telling me as his blood gas started to drop, there is nothing we can do. I also remember the BRIEF moment of relief after his valve replacement where I sat outside the hospital thinking everything would be fine.

I remember January of 2010. I remember laying in the ER thinking this can't be happening to me. I remember laying in the ICU just thinking about my son and husband and my life.

I remember waking up after my surgery thinking...I am alive.

I remember driving this week wondering if it was all happening when I felt a pain. Hard not to become paranoid when you looked at mortality in the mirror.

I am scared everyday. I want to see my son grow up. I want to live.

This is why I walk, because I can when the reality is 1 and 3 cannot.

http://heartwalk.kintera.org/dc/deannamlinz

Please join me

2011-10-23T17:43:00.000-05:00

My sister Lois Lane is a breast cancer survivor. She is also a HUGE hero to me. I think the reality of cancer is it takes things from you. I remember her first surgery. I believe after initial treatment is complete, others treat cancer patients like they are cured. There is no cure YET so let continue the fight.

I also have to tell you she rocked the wigs. They all have had names. Pat Benatar, Blondie....

She is 3 years clear....I love her and today and EVERYDAY she is my hero. Lois Lane, I love you..."Tough, you aint't ever been nothing but tough"

2011-10-18T20:52:00.001-05:00

I recently was trying to answer the question about my "heroes". My Grandparents are definately my heroes but there are so many that I might sound "cheeky" to say them all. OK, I always wanted an OSCAR moment.

To me "heroes" are just that. My husband is AMAZING, don't let him know I said so! So him and Carter are my SUPERHEROES along with my Brother Todd.

This did get me thinking about the women in my life. Mary Petre Morgan and Judy Pieczonka just loved me and I have no idea why. I was a stranger to them and they welcomed me as family. Denny and Judy Pieczonka. My sister, Lois .

You know how you meet someone sometime and you just don't know why and then life slaps you and says listen to me!

What I do know is she is amazing and God brought her in my life doe me to learn from.

Patty lost her dad to heart disease and lives and works everyday for him. This is what drives her mission with the American Heart Association. This is part I love about AHA. The mission.

Today she is my hero-

2011-10-18T20:22:00.002-05:00

Today I had the honor of speaking at the Combined Federal Campaign for the United Way. As I sat there listening, I was reminded about the journey we all go through. I love passion and compassion. I was particularly touched by FOHA which is a no kill animal rescue. My furs are just love. Halo, Josie and Jack. Pure love.

We live each day telling our stories and those before us as well. Our parents, our siblings, our Grandparents, our friends and strangers. Its seems so much easier to talk about others than our self. Home hits home and reality is just there.

There is no charity better than the next. They are ALL personal.

In my family we are diabetic,cerebral palsy, lung disease, PTSD,we are cancer survivors and casualties of heart disease. My family is NOT special.My story has been told so many times.

What my moment was today was an amazing women that was telling me about her son. Triple bypass and asked for two of our heart walk capes for heart walk. I, as we all do have self pity moments. She inspired me.

With sincere heart and many thanks~D

2011-10-15T12:55:00.001-05:00

I think I still am in shock. Ok I know I am! Last Saturday my husband crowned me as Mrs Maryland International 2012! Yes, the picture is me but at times I did think that photoshopping was my only option. After multiple tries, I won! We have lived in Maryland for 4 years and I am so excited to be able to represent our state. As a military spouse, you move around a lot so this is the closest thing to home I have. Although I do have to say that don't ever mess with the Florida Gators or Tampa Bay Buccanneers with me! Florida will always own a piece of me as I grew up there!

It was an amazing weekend and congrats to my new sister queens also. Kristyn Admire, Miss VA, Jennifer Williams,Mrs Va, Miss Maryland, Chardia Murray and our little miss title holders.

Thank you also to Deshawn Shepard, my new state Director. How lucky am I.

I love you Andy and thank you for always allowing me to pursue my dreams!

I remain blessed~

Mrs Maryland International 2012

Deanna M Linz

2011-09-26T16:06:00.000-05:00

Everyday I feel blessed. Saturday was a great event that really made me love the "community". Thank you to the Ivy Community Charities for all you do for the American Heart Association and so many other great organizations.

I arrived for the 5k followed by many clouds and no umbrella. It was amazing! They awarded me with a check for $700 for AHA!

There may have been clouds but it was a sunny day for heart health!

I remain blessed

2011-09-16T21:18:00.000-05:00

Choices.

We all make them, we all question them and I promise you...90% of the time they are wrong. Much like that aweful plane speech in an airplane ( I still would fully support the parachut speech and may the best jumper win) but seriously none of us come out of the womb with a manual in are hands. Oh, if our parents could have been so blessed.

As a Mother,wife and friend....unique job descriptions...how do we make the choices we need to make???

I guess the answer is to choose God, choose family and pray those will love you for just being you. Dream the dreams of many and taste the reality of salt. On some things its just salty but on the perfect piece of fruit its devine!

Never give up on your dreams, be healthy, choose wisely.

With sincere heart~

2011-09-10T16:44:00.002-05:00

Thank you Dani from the United Way for inviting the American Heart Association! I had a great day!

I really enjoyed today at the RFK stadium for the Howard University kick off game. I worked at the health pavillion and it was so fun to hear the music and feel the spirit of the start of football. My greatest memories growing up was football season! I grew up in a time that included multiple TV's plus a head set via radio. My Grandpa's BOTH were advid sports fans as was my Brother.

I love this time of year!

With sincere heart~

D

2011-08-29T13:51:00.004-05:00

Join us on November 5, 2011 for the Greater Washington Heart Walk!
Help us raise $2 million! Register today at
http://greaterwashingtonheartwalk.org/

If you are a company, church or civic organization that would like me to speak at one of your events, please contact me at deanna.linz@heart.org! I am a survivor, you can be too! Get educated, learn your numbers and what they mean. Lets get up and get moving together!

If you raise $25 or send 10 emails from your Heart Walk Website between today and August 31 you will be eligible for a $100 groupon card. Groupon is a deal-of-the-day website that is localized to this area. Everyday Groupon features unbeatable deals on the best stuff to do, see, eat, and buy in your city. One winner will be selected at random from all of those eligible . . it could be YOU!

The American Heart Association is the largest voluntary health organization working to prevent, treat and defeat heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. These diseases, the Nation's No.1 and No.3 killers, claim more than 865,000 American lives a year. Thanks to all our walkers, donors and volunteers who have accepted the challenge to help fight heart disease and stroke. We cannot achieve our mission without each one of you

With sincere heart~

Deanna

2011-08-12T19:55:00.000-05:00

You know how time passes you by and sometimes you just forget. For me it was survival I suppose. Honestly, at times it seems so much like a blurr. I had one of my great friends AJ remind me of things that were just two years ago and yet in my head...its a lifetime.

Today while at National Naval Medical Center/the new Walter Reed Medical Center we ran into one of Carter's doctors. He reminded us of what I had forgotten, well not really...but reality hit. They talk about Carter ofter as he is the ONLY case most remember weening off an epinepherine drip. Usually as he put it, was a time to say goodbye.

Carter is a miracle and our Rocky.

2011-08-11T21:24:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that the past few weeks have been rough on so many levels. Its really not been a feel sorry mode but more like what did I do in my last life kind of state. I mean seriously, so much was just brought on by me but COME ON, REALLY! I had an amazing time in Chicago because I was surrounded by SO many incredibly ladies. I know so many people REALLY do not understand why we subject ourselves to five complete strangers and call it fun, but we do and HEY, I WOULDN'T CHANGE A THING. Although Disney is looking pretty good to me at this point.

After we left Chi town and drove to get out furry family, I decided that there was no better way to end a trip then to take off the back of our bumper by BACKING into a ditch!!! Yes, idiot...please check here. Then we get home and one calf is swollen and THANK GOODNESS I work for AHA that I was admitted to NNMC for a DVT. Then, apparently, I am allergic to contrast because hey I am also allergic to milk, Plavix and at times a few family members so its just gotten better.

I did attend our all staff for the American Heart Association which was amazing! First, I can jump rope in 5 inch heels with HEART CHASE and yet FALL just walking on my own two feet. How I just wanted to lay there and cry but I was SO horrified, I brushed off, prayed for coffee and a quick exit and now I am the proud owner of a bruised ego and a third degree burn from a LEAN CUISINE CHEESE POCKET on my chin. REALLY, YEAH...really and a broken wrist!

Out of all this, this is God purpose. We sat there through seminars and encouragement, bathroom breaks and me discovering that I will NEVER book a trip via a tour guide to meet the ultimate reason.

What people do not realize is what the American Heart Association does. I get asked ALL the time, where does the money go. I can pull up to the pie chart and it will tell you that 93 cents on every dollar goes to the cause. Yeah...what does that mean????

There is a young lady in Virginia that was not feeling well and collapsed at school. She was blue. The American Heart Association Doners had supplied AED's to the school and no one thought it may save a life.

The nurse used the AED and saved her life. She had an irregular heart beat and now has a pace maker.

At that point I got it. This is what I do, this is who I am, and this is the reason why.

2011-07-24T22:28:00.003-05:00

When I was a little girl I always had big dreams. My Dad encouraged those dreams with shows like "Life Styles of the Rich and Famous." In fact, that is how I ended up at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. My Father dared me to audition after watching one of the shows and I did. Much to ALL of our surprise I actually was accepted. We were a working family so we could afford the summer session (so I drove from Florida to California by my self in a Ford Escort Wagon...I am sure looking sporty:) and then was offered attendance into their program. We just did not have the money and I was never made to live the streets at 18 of Hollywood so I came home. I found myself working fulltime as a model for HSN so to me this was a left handed version of Hollywood. This is also where I met my great "sister" Lisa Humpries 20 years ago. ( I graduated college the year my Father died, but hey I GOT THERE, right! I also worked fulltime time and paid my own way so I am proud of that)

This brings me to this week. The dream is still there for me and yes I do realize that it may just be a dream but if its in your heart...NO ONE and I mean NO ONE has the right to take that from you.

This past week was AMAZING and Janet Bolin, besides the fact that my husband's favorite racer is not her favorite racer:), is impeccable. I am so excited for her and the true opportunity that the International system offers. It gives you the voice in the crown. You know the one that when you screams FIRE everyone listens too.

I am a big supporter of the dream. There are naysayers that may not "get" you but that's ok. At the end of the day, if you get you and its in your heart, never give up on your dream. I don't care if its a silly dream to others but dream it and live it.

Shannon said this week that its about the journey and that is so true. My journey, lets face it, has been a bit bumpy. I can't change my life and Lord know sometimes I truly wish I could but I am BEYOND blessed to have my husband and my son and that I still can dream. I have lost both parents, had a heart attack, stroke, surgery, two deployments, breast Cancer (sister) and of course my little man who spent his first 6 months in the hospital. Its not really been the best couple of years but every year I grow and every year I get stronger. This is why I do the International pageant. I am not special, my story is not special. When you are out there hearing other stories, clarity comes to life and it no longer about ME but about WE.

I was asked this week, can you do this job with a sick child and your heart issues? Well, I just wanted to scream " YOU DON'T KNOW MY LIFE". I am so blessed because of the education that the American Heart Association has given me. My parents were not that lucky. If it weren't for my volunteering and now working for AHA, I would not be here. As far as my son, he is not sick, but so so so special. He does has Cerebral Palsy but shines and advances everyday and is our miracle. "Sick" he is not. My hero he is.

There were 54 BEAUTIFUL, STUNNING and ACCOMPLISHED ladies at Mrs International this year and not one was more deserving than the other. When you have 5 judges in 5 minutes that form an opinion, that does not define who we are. They did pick an amazing lady though so I am so excited for that. I was lucky number 13 out of the 54 and top 12:) We all were!!

I also have to say what an incredible job all of the out going queens did this year. Shannon, Ashley and Juliana left some BIG shoes to fill. I was able to get to know Juliana and the McKee family this year through all of the work Jules did for AHA so I have officially adopted her as my little sister. Yes her crown was MUCH bigger that mine but her heart is even bigger than that.

My Father also said to me that if you give up your dreams you die. Well, I am not ready to go yet so look out world.....my head is high and I am moving forward with 53 new INCREDIBLE friends.

A few quick shout outs to Group A for Awesome, Mindy Urzua, Sophia (AUS), Jacque, Kari,Riccha, Elizabeth and Lori...you just are all so amazing and I love you! A special one to Lisa Humpries,

To my sponsor and incredible friend, Joe Peri and SKINN Cosmetics, there are no words. I am soooooo blessed in your belief and love. To Joey, Clay and Terry, although I did not win, I felt like the winner all week. I love you all.

The International family is just that, family. Anyone involved is truly blessed.

I will post additional pictures when I arrive home but again, WOW what a great week. To Janet...ROCK IT GIRL. I know you will do amazing things with the NASCAR FOUNDATION and you are a true example to us all. To the rest of my class...GO 13!!!!

What is my journey? I am still walking and when I get there you will know. Never say never and never give up on your dreams. If you feel that someone may have not "got" you, don't let them "get" to you. Winner's are often not "gotten" but they are never forgotten. Walk your walk, pave your path and always listen to your heart.

Signing off from Mrs International 2011! Off to the best job ever...Mommy and Wife!

2011-07-21T22:36:00.000-05:00

Hello~~ First I apologize for the photos but I am working off a net book. Secondly, WOW. I have truly made friends to last a lifetime!

Also, in regards to the hair...yes I am not a natural blonde, SHOCKING :) So I went back to my roots!

Be who you are and embrace the journey, we only have one time so live a little!

Listen to your heart~ Deanna

2011-07-21T12:29:00.000-05:00

The day started out with a good workout, then makeup and then the interview. It was a great panel of judges. I learned a long time ago not to guess how I did because all I can do is my best. You like me or don't. I was just real and me. I just pray it all went great but I do know its in God's hands.

Some have asked, yes we have FOUR pregnant ladies competing this year. Montana, Idado, Nebraska and one more, They all are so cute! Idaho is in my group, love her.

Here is my interview group....off to rehearsal then Meet and Greet is tonight!

Listen to your heart~D

2011-07-20T22:22:00.000-05:00

Good evening!

It was a wonderful packed day full of a trip to downtown Chicago, a boat ride, rehearsal and a makeup seminar! This will be short today but I promise to blog more tomorrow. I have to get some zz's as Carter is sleeping and my interview is tomorrow morning!!!!

Here are some pictures of the day~

Listen to your heart~Deanna

2011-07-19T23:02:00.000-05:00

Orientation Shoes! Happy shoes!

Mrs Kentucky, Lisa Humpries and I

Orientation was tonight. It was great. I know it sounds like a cliche but everyone looked beautiful. I was so blessed to be there and excited that I did not take a lot of photos but Paula Preston was taking them and I am so excited to see them!

I have to say I LOVE Oklahoma. There must be NO unattractive ladies in that state and Autumn is also very sweet! Minn too. Another just stunner. It was so nice to see everyone and I look forward to tomorrow where I can really get to know them. Arkansas also...really Ms Bernee...what are you feeding your ladies! I want some.

This is brief as I am off to bed but a few quick notes...there will be a top 12 this year. Exciting!

Listen to your heart....D

2011-07-19T17:08:00.003-05:00

Thank you for the flowers!

With the beautiful Mrs Arizona! Jennifer Olson. Love her.

Love the program book covers! Clay Spann did an amazing job as usual!

2011-07-18T19:00:00.006-05:00

CHEESY TOURIST PHOTO:)

I love my Carter!!!!!Taking in the view...from a distance!

More views!

I am so excited, blessed and honored to have the opportunity to compete for the title of Mrs International 2011. I really would not be here if it weren't for my incredible husband and wonderful sponsor, SKINN Cosmetics. I am also so blessed to work for the American Heart and Stroke Association so thank you for allowing me the time off!!!! This is truly a mission of the heart for me...literally!

We arrived yesterday to the Doubletree Hotel and Convention center in Skokie, Illinois.The unpacking of the car took some time so after my wonderful husband dragged multiple luggage carts up to the room, I sent him off to watch Harry Potter while I organized and hung with my little man.

Today started with a workout and an errand then the day began. Andy and I really wanted to "tour" Chicago today as this is my final attempt at a dream for me. We have never done the tourist thing so out the maps came and off Andy, Carter and I went!

We went to the John Hancock and went up 94 floors. I am not good with heights but Andy and Car enjoyed it. We then walked around the Gold Coast and took in some lunch at Gibson's.

I did see Wisconsin and Australia today and both are equally stunning! Australia is so tall. I am so jealous! I look forward to getting to know them!

I also spoke today with a friend of mine for 20 years! We use to model together at HSN and she too is tall and stunning. Hello Mrs Kentucky! I was one of her bridesmaids! I love the International family and I am so excited to see her!

I gotta run, my son has discovered that tearing up the newspaper is almost as fun as Christmas! Good thing the Doubletree has amazing service. I may need to leave an apology note....

Listen to your heart...orientation is tomorrow at 6!

Daddy and Car!

2011-06-27T12:36:00.000-05:00

I love my life, I really do. I am so blessed for my wonderful family, my faith and even my job. Yes, I said it, my job! I work for the American Heart and Stroke Association so everyday I not only share my story but get to listen to so many others. This is my purpose, this is my mission.

I met the most amazing gentleman last week name Morris Gavinson. Wow, what an inspiration. I met him in cardiac rehab and we chatted over coffee as I was once again reminded that everyone is a book. You just need to listen...

He asked me an interesting question. He asked, "Do you ever feel sorry for yourself?". I said I may have moments but we all do but we also have choices. So for my son, my husband and my faith I choose to live. That includes meeting incredible people like Morris.

Please join me in my journey:

Greater Washington Region's Heart Walk!

http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=456092

Thank you to our sponsors and walkers for helping us to get to $782K so far! We can get to 2 Million with your help! Walk is Nov 5th!!!!

Until next time...listen to your heart!

Log on to: http://www.heart.org/ to find out how you can help in your community!

PS~ I love the teaching gardens!

2011-06-17T13:34:00.000-05:00

I am a survivor, you and your loved one's can be too...learn more...

The American Heart Association hosts DC Stroke Awareness Day to Combat the Leading Cause of Disability for Americans

Stroke can happen to anyone, at any time and at any age. Learn to recognize a stroke, because in a stroke emergency, time lost is brain lost. For every minute you don’t get help, more brain cells die. Therefore education the Greater Washington community on stroke risk factors, warning signs and prevention is of critical importance.

What: DC Stroke Awareness Day. Members of the DC Stroke Collaborative have agreed to support the DC Stroke Awareness day by providing education to raise awareness of stroke risk factors and warnings signs as well as to learn more about comprehensive cardiovascular wellness. There will be giveaways, health materials and this year, we have combined with the Wellness Works Farmer’s Market so fresh produce grown regionally will be offered for sale. The American Heart Association will have a prize wheel with a variety of giveaways including certificates to the Farmers Market. Tentative health stations include:

Booths: Display:

George Washington Hospital BMI/Weight

Georgetown University Hospital Warning signs

Howard University Hospital BP Screening

Providence Hospital Diabetes/Nutrition

Sibley Hospital Life’s Simple 7

United Medical Center Nutrition

Washington Hospital Center BP Screening

When: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 from 10:00am – 2:00 pm

Where: 1900 E Street NW, Washington, DC – outside of the Office of Personnel Management and combined with the Wellness Works Farmer’s Market

Who: The general public, American Heart Association volunteers and the DC Stroke Collaborative

Why: The American Heart Association, in collaboration with the DC Stroke Collaborative, is throwing a free event in order to raise awareness about stroke warning signs and prevention. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability for all Americans. African Americans are at an increased risk due to high rates of factors such as family history, diabetes and high blood pressure. Therefore stroke education is a necessity.

The American Heart Association has also found that nearly four in 10 American adults believe they have ideal heart health, when actually less than 1 percent does. Managing high blood pressure is one of the seven simple ways the American Heart Association has identified to get healthier and reduce the risks of heart disease and stroke. The Association will be on hand to discuss the online My Life Check assessment at mylifecheck.org.

2011-06-12T09:11:00.001-05:00

I have to tell you, as an over 10 year volunteer for AHA, I knew the staff of the American Heart Association was committed to the mission and worked hard. As I am a staff member, I really have seen the true heart that goes in to our events, advocacy and fundraising.

Yesterday we held the 21st annual American Heart Associations "Lawyers Have Heart" event at the Harbor in Georgetown. I set my alarm for 1:30 am and arrived in Georgetown at 3:30AM for event set up. Everyone was in great spirits and that alone I was impressed with considering the time of night and there were people in Georgetown who were still out from the evening prior. Bars in DC close at 4am. I parked and started to walk to the harbor to find my self somewhat lost but after the guidance of my great VP , Patty MacEwan , I arrived. Set up ended around 6:30am and I went to my next duty station which was the water station on the fun walk. Yvette Mingo, VP Baltimore for AHA was my partner and we had a great time. She is an amazing lady and her heart just shines.

Our weather has been extreme lately so hydration is key and I have to tell you, not many people turned us down. It's really important to stay hydrated in extreme heat. ITS GOOD FOR YOUR HEART and vital for your health!!!!

The run/walk was shortened to a 5K due to the heat and the event was a success. Over 8000 walk/runners participated and we were able to raise over $650K to go to funding research and advocacy, which is a vital part of our mission and organization.

Thank you also to the Miss Preteen, Teen and Miss and little Miss DC International for walking for the cause. I am so proud and blessed to be a part of the International family.

Today and everyday~Listen to your heart!

A little bit more about the event:

Lawyers Have Heart

Since its creation in 1991, Lawyers Have Heart has raised more than $7.5 million to benefit the American Heart Association, whose mission is building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. By participating in the Washington area's largest 10K event, you will not only help to strengthen your own heart through exercise, you will also help raise funds vital to the education programs and research of the AHA. Learn More...
Saving Lives

Since 1924 the American Heart Association has helped protect people of all ages and ethnicities from the ravages of heart disease and stroke. These diseases, the nation's No. 1 and No. 3 killers, claim more than 910,000 American lives a year. The association invested more than $474 million in fiscal year 2005-06 for research, professional and public education, advocacy and community service programs so people across America can live stronger, longer lives.

Your Contribution At Work

For every $1 raised through Lawyers Have Heart, .88 cents is used to fund our mission. The American Heart Association is the largest source of non-governmental funding for cardiovascular research in the country.

2011-06-03T09:52:00.000-05:00

There is no doubt that I love my job and my mission. My life has been so impacted by Cardiovascular Disease that to me, its just part of my life and my story. As serious of a subject that Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke are, some days...it can make you smile:)

Deanna Linz, Mrs Northeast International 2011, walks the walk as HEARTWOMEN!

Yep, that's right. I was our mascot. The American Heart Associations "HEARTMAN" or in this case women, attended a START! Walking Now kick off!

http://www.startwalkingnow.org/mystart_tracker.jsp

I encourage you to check it out and get up and get moving! Celebrate Accomplishments!

As time goes on, you'll see your activity time and distances go up. You’ll outgrow your Walking Plan and gain confidence as you tackle a new one. View how you're doing by week, month, any time period you choose.

Register and start using the Tracker and MyStart! Walking Plans today. If your company wants to use the Tracker for a worksite wellness program, please have your HR department or worksite wellness coordinator set up your company account first. This is a separate registration.

Walking program developed by American Council on Exercise (ACE) in collaboration with the AHA.

Listen to your heart~Deanna

2011-05-28T21:53:00.000-05:00

Barbeque's, sunshine and family, its so easy to forget why we are offered this fortitude on this Memorial Day weekend. As a military spouse, I am beyond proud. Don't forget to remember....Thank you to all who serve and have served this Memorial Day....

I remain blessed...listen to your heart...D

2011-05-23T18:28:00.001-05:00

Today I was asked to be a keynote speaker at a kick off event for Lockheed Martin for our Greater Washington Region Heart Walk! Linda Gooden, from Lockheed Martin, is this year's heart walk chair and her passion is clearly conveyed in the Lockheed family. It was amazing and I felt blessed to share my story. I live the loss of my parents and my own heart attack and surgery but I don't often allow myself to feel the loss. It never goes away.

I feel so honored to be a part of the American Heart Associations team.

To put things is perspective tonight, my son Carter held tightly on to his favorite toy all the way through his bath. He is still smiling as Daddy is rocking him to sleep.

My life is great, I am blessed and this is why I share my story.

Listen to your heart~

2011-05-20T11:56:00.001-05:00

Have you walked today?

I am so excited and honored to be featured on the American Heart Associations Heart Walk website! As a heart attack and stroke survivor, its importmant for me to inspire change and create hope. 80% of Cardiovascular disease is largely preventable. This includes exercise. Just 30 minutes a day can change your life!!!
http://www.startwalkingnow.org/

I was also excited to have been at the Hughes Kick off celebration yesterday as they inspired change and challenged their employees to get moving and WALK with the American Heart Associations START! Walking tracker!!!!

So get up and get moving!!!!

Listen to your heart!!!!

2011-05-17T19:16:00.002-05:00

When I was younger I decided I would write a book. This was really a collection of short stories that I gathered while visiting different places. Mostly, retirement homes and VA's. There were and are so many incredible stories. Like many thoughts and dreams, sometimes life just gives you a few detours to make you value the stories you want to aspire to tell.

Today I had the "fun" of hanging with the RED HATS! This group of Women brought me back to what I aspired to do many years ago. They also reminded me of my Grand Mother, Memaw, who is 84 and still so full of life! Shirley, who is 84, ran today's event and just sky dived!!!!

The Red Hats and Mended Hearts organizations are so impressive individually but together along with the American Heart Association have so many books to be read.

Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in American and number three in stroke. I was able and honored to speak today on heart health but lets face it, they educated me. I was so honored and blessed today.

Thank you to Shirley and the Red Hats. I tip my hat to you!!!

2011-05-15T07:29:00.001-05:00

There are just some days that you really worry about prior to even starting. Its usually the big days. Yesterday was a big day. It started at 9am and was scheduled to 10pm, which really meant 11pm for me and many other American Heart Association staff and volunteers. The American Heart Association host a "Heart's Delight Wine Tasting and Auction" annually and this yes did not deny. With over 400 in attendance, over a million dollars raised and a plethora of world renowned chefs and wine experts, it truly was what Washington, DC is known for. Glitz, glamour and philanthropy. Did I mention the Honorable Richard Chaney also attended the weeks events. A friend of mine was so excited about Dick Chaney, me well, the minute I saw the chef that worked with Gordon Ramsey I was in! I love Hell's Kitchen!!!!

We started out the day setting up then the wine Bordeaux tasting and seminar followed. Around 8:30pm the live auction started with a lot of hoopla. The theme was the village people and the 70's. Yes, I sported some fantastic glasses and hat!

As things winded down, all the auction items were packed and attendees checked out....14 hours after it started,,,I headed home. Thank you to the Omni Shoreham, Washington, D.C. for hosting the event and supplying all the incredible food to all the volunteers (we even had sushi!) and AHA, Lane and Heidi for putting on such an amazing event.

Listen to your heart~D

2011-05-05T09:28:00.003-05:00

What can I say, life is good. After all, I was able to spend this past Monday on a golf course for a GREAT CAUSE! The day was sunny and a bit brisk but by the afternoon it was pretty much perfect. I volunteered to help out with the American Heart Association's "Celebrity Golf Tournament". I had the fun of challenging the players to a 50/50 challenge on hole 17! If they made the shot, we paid them $20. If they didn't, they paid us. There were a few that made it but they let us keep the $20...good sports:) I was able to raise $960 dollars.

The event itself raised over $275,000!!!!!

Since I am not a golfer, I did have some challenges initially finding the hole but I ventured out in my golf cart (first time driving one:)) and finally came upon it. The challenge lasted five hours and I did manage to see a lot of deer. I am from Florida so deer excite me! I tried to get a picture but they were camera shy and FAST!!!!

Until next time...listen to your heart~D

2011-04-30T19:39:00.001-05:00

Its was a Saturday, I say was because the days go so fast, and it was full of festivities! The March of Dimes walk started out the morning. MOD means a lot to me and I am always so touched and inspired by so many of the stories I hear. My son was born at 23 weeks and is our miracle. The March of Dimes touches so many lives. I never realized that so many babies are born prematurely until Carter, my son, spent 165 days in the NICU. I also want to say how INSPIRED I am by those whom work so hard to help the March of Dimes on so many levels. Deanna Bucciaralli and Christina Stengal in Arkansas just to name a few. Christina was Mrs Arkansas 2010 and also had a son born prematurely who is thriving!!!! Thank you for all you do. (http://www.arkansaspageants.com/) She truly is such a leader!!!!

The winners of the Mason Dixon Pageant!

This afternoon I judged the Little Miss Mason Dixon Pageant!!! Contestants from DE, PA, WV, DC, MD & VA participated! I have to tell you, the talent portion blew me away!!!! I saw a lot of future "American Idols" and Oscar winners!

Tomorrow is a family day then Monday its the American heart Associations Celebrity Golf Tournament. Time to tee up!!!!

with the beautiful Director of the VA and MD International pageants, Deshawn Shepard!!!

Listen to your heart~D

2011-04-30T19:10:00.000-05:00

Stephanie was helping to man the booth!!!

Time flies and has been busy! On Friday, I along with a co-worker at the American heart Association, worked the health fair at Aronson. I love companies that hold health fairs. They get it! A healthy employee is a productive employee!

It is so important to live a healthy lifestyle but with work and families, finding the time can be hard. Remember, it just takes 30 minutes a day of exercise to make a difference in your life. For every hour you walk, you extend your life expectancy. So walk to work, during lunch or after work!!! Also, don't forget to sign up for your HEART WALK with the American Heart Association!

Every step counts and I would love to have you on my team....

Deanna Linz

http://www.startgreaterwashington.org/

Listen to your heart!

2011-04-05T09:33:00.002-05:00

2011-03-31T22:48:00.001-05:00

My Father was a stubborn man, to a fault. He was a worker. We were Pemberton's and that is what we did with pride. My Father, in all of his judgement, one day brought a man home to dinner. We were living in Georgia and this just wasn't something he usually did. I was about 12 maybe and I still remember it. My Dad was just that kind of man.

I had dreams and my Dad encouraged them. He always said if you give up your dreams you die.

I miss him....

He always hated April 1. I think he was mocked for having this as his Birthday. His youngest Brother, 25 years later and yes the same parents share the same Birthday. What can I say, Grandma was fertile:)

My Dad, well lets just start this out by saying he cut his finger off at the shop a month prior and drove himself to the hospital.

I was working as a buyer at HSN. I was not far from my parents business and drove by at 10pm at night at times to find my Dad still there. I worry about my Brother because of this but hey, he won't listen to me. I am the little sis...we can talk more about this later.

My Dad had a conversation with an insurance lady. This was about 9am. I still cannot remember why I did not have my car that day but EIGHT HOURS later, my Brother took him to the hospital. He could not catch his breathe. I do remember him telling me on the phone, tell your Mom I am fine.

He was admitted to Largo Medical and had a double valve replacement. That "full" feeling after his argument with the insurance lady was Congestive Heart Failure.

My Mom was always the sick one and this was just something he ignored because he was the caregiver.(My Mom had multiple heart surgeries)

I carried a pager from the hospital. I remember after the surgery I just walked outside and took a breathe. I was elated.

I also remember crossing the bridge when they transferred him at 5am only to realize I was on the wrong bridge.

Then there was the text. I went to the hospital. I watched the numbers drop. He left us....at 54.

April 1was my Father, Harold Thomas Pemberton, Birthday.

I love and miss you daddy....everyday

Listen to your heart

2011-03-26T13:37:00.008-05:00

I am so proud of my work as an Ambassador and Spokesperson for the American Heart and Stroke Association. Life, by the loss of my Father, brought me here over 10 years ago and then again in 2006 by the loss of my Mother and my heart attack and surgery last year. I remember I first got involved with "Train to End a Stroke" in Florida. It was an amazing experience full of amazing stories and heart breaking moments we discussed while walking. I learned at that point that it is really is about WALKING THE WALK.

This past week reminded me why advocacy is so important. Why sharing my story is so important. Most of all, I was reminded again just how short life is with all of its uncertainties. Life is short and that stares me in the face everyday.

I woke up a week ago Tuesday with a sudden snap in the back of my neck. My eyes were blurry and I just could not focus as hard as I tried. My husband was in the shower and I went to him to tell him my vision was blurry. It was literally seconds later that I no longer could form a single word. Everything just was gibberish. Andy called 911. The strange thing is that I could understand what was happening but I could not vocalize. To say I was scared was an understatement because I new through my work with AHA that this could be devastating. I just remember trying to say Carter's name and I couldn't.

I spent 4 days in the hospital. Thank you Shady Grove Adventist Health care for ONCE AGAIN supplying amazing health care. It was determined that I had a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

What is a TIA or transient ischemic attack? (Courtesy of http://www.heart.org/)

A TIA is a "warning stroke" or "mini-stroke" that produces stroke-like symptoms but no lasting damage. Recognizing and treating TIAs can reduce your risk of a major stroke.

Most strokes aren't preceded by TIAs. However, of the people who've had one or more TIAs, more than a third will later have a stroke. In fact, a person who's had one or more TIAs is more likely to have a stroke than someone of the same age and sex who hasn't.

TIAs are important in predicting if a stroke will occur rather than when one will happen. They can occur days, weeks or even months before a major stroke. In about half the cases, the stroke occurs within one year of the TIA.

What causes a transient ischemic attack?

TIAs occur when a blood clot temporarily clogs an artery, and part of the brain doesn't get the blood it needs. The symptoms occur rapidly and last a relatively short time. Most TIAs last less than five minutes. The average is about a minute. Unlike stroke, when a TIA is over, there's no injury to the brain.

What are the symptoms of a TIA?

It's very important to recognize the warning signs of a TIA or stroke. The usual TIA symptoms are the same as those of stroke, only temporary:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

The short duration of these symptoms and lack of permanent brain injury is the main difference between TIA and stroke.

TIAs are extremely important predictors of stroke. Don't ignore them! If symptoms appear, CALL 9-1-1 TO GET MEDICAL HELP IMMEDIATELY. A doctor should determine if a TIA or stroke has occurred, or if it's another medical problem with similar symptoms. Some examples are seizure, fainting, migraine headache, or general medical or cardiac condition. Prompt medical or surgical attention to these symptoms could prevent a fatal or disabling stroke from occurring.

For stroke information, call the American Stroke Association at 1-888-4-STROKE.

I was scheduled to emcee the DC Miss and Teen International pageant but was unable too. My sincere thanks to Ginny Meerman for stepping in for me. I heard you do a great job!

This week, with sad remorse, did not start out any better as I arrived home with THANK GOODNESS, no long term effects of my "episode" as the doctors love to call it. A friend of Andy and I's, and such an AMAZING and KIND man, passed away on Monday night. Andy Odenthal, 22, passed away suddenly at the gym from a previously undiagnosed heart condition. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

It is so important, regardless of your age, to really learn your numbers (cholesterol, BP, Blood Sugar, Trig) and get a baseline EKG to understand if you are at risk. Heart disease is not prejudice and being your own advocate can save your life.

Listen to your heart...and your head....learn to live. www.heart.org/ http://www.goredforwomen.org/

PS~I'll be walking in the START!American Heart Associations Greater Washington Heart Walk again this year. I hope you can join me!

2011-03-21T12:15:00.000-05:00

2011-03-03T18:00:00.001-05:00

Besides the fact that I look like a pale cat alley cat in the photo:) (bronzer can be your friend!), today was a great day for many reasons! I was invited to present a "Lunch and Learn" for the American Heart Association! Who doesn't love a good power point and a free lunch! Thank you Cheaseapake Candles for the invite and all who attended. It was a nice turnout!Ashley Smith, Miss International, also attended and looked stunning as ever!

I know heart health is not on the forefront of most peoples mind but when your heart stops so do you.

I also got a followup EKG from Adventist Healthcare and everything came back NORMAL!!!! Very happy. Oh and then I went to the DMV. Nothing is normal about that...ugh!!!!!

Listen to your heart, today and everyday...

2011-02-28T09:59:00.001-05:00

Montgomery County March for Babies

Team Captain Update No. 2

February 28, 2011

MISSION SPOTLIGHT: The Linz Family

Carter Thomas Linz~ Age 2

How do you write about a story you never expected? How do you do it without being a martyr yet just tell your story knowing so many others have it worse. I saw that last week in the PICU at Johns Hopkins. I am covered with guilt because as a parent it always falls back on what did I/we do. There are no answers. They gave us no answers. There were no expectations of us ever having a child. We had had multiple losses.

I lost my parents in 2001 and 2004 from heart disease. I met my husband in 2004. He is in the military and so incredible. From day one we wanted a family. After multiple losses we had Carter at 3:12 am on 1/2/2009.

Carter Thomas Linz arrived like we Pemberton-Linz do - with gusto. He was born weighing 1lb 8oz and measuring12 inches long. He was 17 weeks early and the odds were against him. We always said to them, if he fights, we will too, no option and might I add he pinched his neonatologist when she was trying to intubate him. He is a fighter…my “Rocky”.

Carter spent 165 days in the NICU. He was the “mayor” of NNMC but they saved his life. We are forever grateful. During Carter’s NICU stay he had numerous surgeries-one on his heart, one on his eyes, and one for a hernia-a brain bleed, a G-tube to help him eat and a lot of uncertainty. We were told he would leave the hospital with a trach and blind.

Throughout our journey with Carter, we were told multiple times there wasn’t anything we could do.. In my mind I went through all of the “hate”. I was broken and NO ONE can tell you anything to fix that when it is your child.

Today, Carter is growing and thriving and just celebrated his 2nd birthday. He is currently on O2 (soon to be off and he never needed a trach thank goodness!) and can see great, with his glasses. He also works hard every day to overcome challenges with Cerebral Palsy. Yes, we still have challenges ahead of us, but Carter’s story has just begun…he is meant for amazing things and Daddy and Mommy will be right there with him. God is great.

Story by Carter’s Mommy, Deanna Linz

2011-02-26T23:24:00.005-05:00

The beautiful Miss Teen International, Juliana McKee! She helped with the press all night. Thank you Roxana for all you do!

I helped with the sports auction!

What do you get when you combine a silent auction, beautiful dresses, fine wine, inspring stories and multiple volunteers and staff members all there for the cause. The Greater Washington American Heart Association's HEART BALL! The Ritz Carlton hosted the event which brought out some of DC's elite and philanthropist. Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International being one of them!

Some of the amazing volunteers!

I had the pleasure of working the silent auction in the sports area. I love sports so I was more than happy about my assignment. The auction included a bevy of inticing offers and opportunities. In my area, the Capital tickets and all that came with them where a hot commodity and brought a dual of the pens in the last 5 seconds of the auction. We had Yankees, we had the NY Jets, we had Mohammad Ali, we had the Redskins, we had the LPGA, PGA....so you get my point...if you love sports...we had you covered. Sold, sold and sold....it was a success with a great deal of the proceeds going to the American Heart Association. As a heart attack survivor, I am so thankful for those who support and give to AHA.

So as I go to sleep tonight, I can sleep just a little bit better knowing that today lives were touched and changes were made...in a heart healthy way.

The American Heart Association of Greater Washington raised 910,000!!!! What an amazing event!

2011-02-12T22:00:00.002-05:00

I was honored to be asked by Adventist Healthcare to be a featured speaker at their "Love Your Heart" expo at White Flint Mall in Maryland. The turnout was great and the event was a success. The most exciting part to me...well I got to hug the surgeon that did my surgery. Its funny that when you go through a heart attack and surgery, everything is a blurr. Its important to always say thank you and today was my day to do so!

One of the best things about being out in the community is listening to others stories. It is always surprising to me what people go through and how they push through and inspire others.

Kendra Hall I met about a year ago. She is so stunning and of course I encouraged her to do Miss International. (still working on that:) I learned today about her Brother and his enlarged heart. After a successful surgery he was doing well. She was beaming with love when she told me this. Her Brother was killed shortly after in a car accident. There are heros among us..she is one.

Listen to your heart and off to bed...D

2011-02-12T14:28:00.001-05:00

Patty MacEwan, VP at the American Heart Association

With Patty. What an amazing and inspiring lady.

I was invited to be on the panel for Prince Williams Hospital in Manassas, Virginia for their Red Dress event. The turn out was great as 75 people registered, had their cholesterol checked and were able to ask questions to the panel in regards to heart disease and stroke. I was joined on the panel by Dr. Taheri (cardiology), Dr Leet (cardiology) and Dr. Chen (Internist). Jenni Chase from WMZQ in Washington, DC emceed.

Jenni Chase, Dr Taheri, Myself and Dr Leet

Dr. Leet founded The Commonwealth Preventative Medicine Institute – an organization offering a unique and comprehensive approach for people interested in optimizing their health and longevity. Dr. Leet felt compelled to help others avoid what he experienced and encountered with his own heart attack. The Commonwealth Preventative Medicine Institute focuses on lifestyle changes and gaining control over their cardiovascular health. Dr. Taheri is currently the vice president of Prince William County Medical Society and serves as a delegate to the Medical Society of Virginia. He is a fellow of American College of Cardiology as well as Society of Coronary Angiography and Intervention. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. How I ended up with such a distinguished panel still amazes me.

Patty, Dr Leet and I

Patty MacEwan, VP at the American Heart Association was also there to share the message of heart health with Go Red for Women. You often wonder why people go into non-profit, Patty's story was one of sadness but also ispiration for all she does in honor of the Father she lost to heart disease. She is truly an incredible lady who has gone through so much and given back with such passion. Thank you Patty!!! you are so special.

Jenni Chase from WMZQ emceed

Thank you to all who came out and don't forget to LISTEN TO YOUR HEART!

2011-02-08T18:01:00.003-05:00

With Bob Madigan after my interview

Today I met a very inspirational man, Bob Madigan from WTOP radio. He is known as the "man around town". He shared with me his journey with heart disease and multiple stents placed and I also shared mine. It really just further brings to mind that there is not one face of heart disease. There are so many.

To listen to a little bit of my interview:

http://www.facebook.com/l/47c3cvpBnS-vUWzXxuDJZd6EaiQ;ahc.cachefly.net/WAH/audio/20110209-WTOP-Linz.mp3

Thank you Bob for allowing me to share my story and thank you for being such an inspiration.

A little about Bob!

Briefly describe job : I get to drive someone else's car, invite myself to other people's parties, eat other people's food and tell yet other people about it.

Where do you live? Chic downtown Silver Spring @ stately Wayne Manor.

Most memorable story you've covered and why?: I have been blessed to cover stories all over the US and around the world. The most memorable story of a fun nature was the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Diana. Why? Need you ask?

Book currently reading or last read: "How to speak Cobol and Fortran Fluently in 14 Days" and "Murder on the Gravy Train" by Phyllis Richman.

CD most likely to be in your stereo: Anything by William Shatner. What's on my iPod might really frighten you

Best movie recently seen: Good Night. Good Luck! OK, it is not THAT recent but Edward R. Murrow is a hero to me, and I have been lucky enough to be part of several awards in his name.

If you could pick any one man and woman (living or not) to meet for happy hour, who would they be and why? Barack & Michelle Obama, and I would pick up the tab. That way they would owe me one and maybe invite me up to the family quarters for a private tour.

If you were elected mayor tomorrow, the first thing you would do is: Force parking garages to stay open later and on weekends too, and then demand that Metro stay open even later during the week so we can better enjoy happy hours and beyond.

Favorite pastime: Finding the good in people and telling their stories.

And finally: Based on your observations as "Man About Town," what do you think DC's nightlife scene is missing? Hey, don't look at me, I didn't take it! Go ahead; check my house if you don't believe me! And yes, those two big golden lions were under the bed when I got there!

Don't forget...listen to your heart.

Deanna

2011-02-05T19:51:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest things about the American Heart Association is their community outreach. What better arm than the retail one! After all, we all love to shop!

Today I volunteered at a Ross Store. Hey, I love to shop so I was good to go with it! Ross Stores is a huge supporter of the American Heart Association. You are able to donate to AHA at any Ross Store now through Feb 13th. I did today and also helped to share the message of living a heart healthy life. (ok and I bought a few things too!:))) So I encourage you to visit a Ross store in your area before next Sunday. Its an amazing cause and a great excuse to shop!

So today and EVERYDAY...LISTEN TO YOUR HEART!

2011-02-04T23:46:00.008-05:00

With Ashley Smith, Miss International 2010

Photos courtesy of Mud Productions and Crystal City BID.

Miss Teen Intl 2010 and Miss Teen China 2011

Chelsea Roberts, Miss DC Intl 2010, Ashley Smith, Miss Int'l 2010 and Alexis Harvey, Miss Teen DC 2010

With the beautiful Sarah Fraser from Hot 99.5

What an amazing Team. Roxana is such an inspiration ! Roxana Hoyveda, Director of Communicationa, AHA Greater Washington

With Miss Teen China 2011 and Ashley Smith, Miss International 2010

Working the Go Red Booth! Sticker anyone?

I find myself sitting here wondering about the messages of life. What did I learn today? What did I do today? Have I become a better person? I can honestly say I learned a lot today . I am an Ambassador for the American Heart Association and today I shared my story. I feel like sometimes I am talking about someone else because I still cannot believe it is my story. I mean really, my story? Today is the National Wear Red Day and I did so proudly. I survived what so many have not, including my parents. Heart Disease.

With the beautiful Sarah Fraser from Hot 99.5. She goes goes red for her Grandpa!!!! Loved her!

I volunteered at Crystal Couture for the American Heart Association and Go Red. It was a Go Red Casting but also a night of fashion, festivities and even body painting. One lady was also painted in what they called the "Go Red lady". Amazing work but I have to admit I am avoiding posting her photos because all she had on was paint! Brave and beautiful lady who looked AMAZING. Oh, if I only had the courage, was 6 feet tall and had a body of steel I could do it! Not....

I was also asked to help host the event and was honored to have met Sarah Fraser of the Kane Morning Show/Hot 99.5. Loved her and I am still hoping she will compete for Miss DC or MD international! She left some big shoes to fill but the job was easy with such a fabulous production company behind me. Maggy Francois, thank you!

It was also great to see the International family out in force as Go Red advocates. Ashley Smith, Miss International 2010 and the beautiful DC queens were also in attendance and looked FABULOUSLY FASHIONABLE in red! Go Red.....

Roxy at work!

Off to bed, a visit to the Ross Stores tomorrow. Ross proudly supports the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women and I proudly support them in shopping!

Tonight and every night....listen to your heart!

Body painting from the neck up!

My Mommy Go's Red FOR ME!

2011-02-01T09:41:00.001-05:00

GO RED WITH PRINCE WILLIAMS HOSPITAL!!!!

Preventing and reducing the risk

of heart disease with Red Dress Day

Join Prince William Hospital for Red Dress Day as

we focus on raising awareness about women and heart disease.

9 – 10 AM

Cholesterol and blood pressure screenings

For cholesterol screening, fasting is recommended for 8 hours prior.

Call 703-369-8605 for an appointment time.

Concurrent sessions with cardiologists

10 AM – 12 PM

Brunch with our Physicans:

Panel discussion with emcee Jenni Chase of 98.7 WMZQ

Meet cardiologists from Virginia Cardiovascular Associates and Prince William Cardiology Associates along with Mrs Northeast International and heart attack survivor, Deanna Linz

Participating cardiologists will address preventing and reducing your risk of heart disease.

Tickets are a $10 per person donation to the American Heart Association

Call 703-369-8605 today for reservations

In partnership with the American Heart Association and WMZQ

Saturday, February 12, 2011

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Prince William Hospital, 4th Floor Conference Room

2011-01-31T13:09:00.000-05:00

Wii Love Your Heart - You Should Too!

Join us for the 2nd Annual Love Your Heart Expo featuring heart health screenings, healthy living demonstrations and activities and information on a variety of health topics for men and women of all ages!

Register online and complete all health screenings and you will be entered to win a

Wii Fit Bundle.

The first 50 people to register online will receive a

FREE Godiva dark chocolate covered strawberry.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Health Screenings

Health screenings available at the expo will include:

•Blood Pressure •Body Fat Analysis

•Body Mass Index

•Waist Circumference

•Pulmonary Function Testing

•Personal Counseling Sessions Listen to our WTOP adFree Heart-Healthy Cooking Demos Don’t miss the cooking demonstrations featuring a heart healthy appetizer, entrée, and dessert.

Free Heart Education Talks Medical experts from both Washington Adventist and Shady Grove Adventist Hospitals will be discussing minimally invasive techniques for heart conditions and women’s heart health.

Meet a Local Heart Attack Patient

Meet Mrs. Northeast International, Deanna Linz and learn how having a heart attack at a young age changed her life.

Prizes and Giveaways

We'll have prizes and giveaways for those who attend the expo - don't miss out!

Please Note: Sorry, but Adventist HealthCare and White Flint Mall employees are not eligible to receive the free giveaways or prizes.

Giving

As a not for profit, we rely on our community support to continue to grow in size, services and excellent care. Every dollar donated to the Foundation goes directly to delivering and improving care. Give online to show your support.

Contact

Registration Line at 800-542-5096

2011-01-19T09:09:00.000-05:00

Pictured here: Hamid Taheri, MD, FACC, FSCAI, myself and Bernie Lucas, Creative Services Director, Public Affairs Director and our host!

This time of year always brings with it a lot of uncertain weather. Having just come back from Northwestern, PA, I have certainly seen my share of snow. Yesterday arrived with sleet and snow to the Maryland/DC/VA region. I think it followed me:)

This did not stop me from getting out there with the help of the city of Rockville clean up crew . I found myself at Clear Channel, Washington DC at the invitation of the American Heart Association,Go Red for Women and Clear Channel. Clear Channel is the home of 97.1, Hot 99.5, 98.7 WMZQ and DC101. I had the pleasure and honor of pretaping a segment that will air on January 30th ( in preparation of heart month) on heart health and women and heart disease. Dr Hamid Taheri, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, George Washington University Co-Director of Coronary and Peripheral Interventional Cardiology and I were guided through the interview by Bernie Lucas from Clear Channel.

I was able to share my story and also the signs, symptoms and importance of knowing your numbers and being your own advocate. Dr Taheri offered a lot of very informative information on heart disease, stroke, risk factors and so much more.

This will air on all five of their channels so I hope you will tune in to learn more on how you can live a heart healthy life. Its important to remember that roughly 80% of heart health YOU have control of so when you make those choices today, choose wisely!

Today and everyday, LISTEN TO YOUR HEART...oh yeah and the interview on WMZQ and its sister stations!

Don't forget, NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY IS ON FEBRUARY 4, 2011!!!!
http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/

2011-01-18T09:51:00.000-05:00

Its hard to believe that one year ago, I had a heart attack. National Wear Red Day is coming up on Feb 4th. Log on to http://www.goredforwomen.org/ to learn more.

Don't become the face if heart disease...learn you numbers, live a heart healthy lifestyle and most of all...LISTEN TO YOUR HEART

Deanna’s Story:

When DEANNA LINZ had a heart attack last month, no one believed what was happening — not even her. But the Rockville resident knew something was wrong that morning. "I felt pressure in my chest like a pill was stuck in my throat," she remembers. Then she had trouble lifting her 1-year-old son and grew increasingly anxious. So, Linz dialed 911 and went to the hospital.

"I thought I was being silly, and they thought so, too," she says. One ER nurse assured her it was just a pulled muscle. But since both of her parents died in their 50s of heart disease, the doctor ordered extra tests to be careful, and sure enough, it was a heart attack. She had a 70 percent blockage, which required immediate surgery.

"People don't realize that you don't have to be overweight or diabetic," she says. "There's this preconceived notion that there's a look to heart disease." And that look is nothing like Linz, an avid exerciser and non-smoker who "lives on chicken breasts and Boca Burgers."

She's such a model of healthy living that she's a star in the beauty queen world, Mrs Northeast International 2011. That pageant just happens to have an alliance with the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign, which raises awareness about the fact that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S.

Linz was already well aware due to her family history. Her mother, who was just a size 6 when she passed away, also had trouble getting people to take her medical problems seriously. "They tried to put her on antidepressants," Linz says. Her father was "the healthy one" until he dropped dead after ignoring the signs of a heart attack.

There were lessons in those experiences for Linz. She's developed behaviors very different from that of her mother — a smoker from the South who ate her food deep-fried — and kept on top of her numbers with frequent doctor visits.

It wasn't enough to keep her immune to heart disease, but her vigilance promises to keep her ticker going despite it. Moving forward, she's happy to skip the hamburgers, walk as much as possible and take a handful of drugs every morning if it means she can spend more time with her husband and son.

And if Linz ever thinks something is amiss, she's not going to feel silly asking for help. "This has made me aware that life is short and precious, and you need to be an advocate for yourself," she says. "Nobody knows you better than you."

Deanna is married to MAJOR Christopher Andrew Linz and are currently stationed in Washington, D.C. They are the proud parents of Carter Thomas Linz and the “furry” family of Halo, Josie and Jack. She is also currently Mrs. Northeast International 2011. http://www.deannamlinz.blogspot.com/

Also, below, please find some Heart Month Messaging and links to some of our health materials for Go Red/Heart Month that you can use on your website. Our Youtube site is: http://www.youtube.com/user/AHAGoRedGWR where there are some great news stories on survivors and event coverage that you can utilize for your site too.

Ideas on planning a WRD event: http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/planAnEvent/

Online Resources – great printable information for distribution - http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/resources/

- Knowledge kit –- http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/resources/documents/DS-4177KnowledgeKitMaster.pdf

- Promotional Flyer - http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/resources/documents/WRDPromotionalFlyerHR.pdf

- The Additional Resources tab has some great printouts

- My life check flyer - http://www.goredforwomen.org/wearredday/resources/documents/MyLifeCheckoverviewHiRes.pdf

- How to Go Red- Take Action (free online tools for individuals) - http://www.goredforwomen.org/take_action.aspx

Basic Messages/General Public

· Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, taking the life of one in three each year. This means women like you — mothers, sisters, grandmothers, aunts, friends — are dying at the rate of one per minute because they don’t know what you know: heart disease kills.

· More women die of heart disease than the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. In fact, one in three American women die of cardiovascular diseases, compared to one in 30 women who die of breast cancer.

· Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease. Heart disease has already touched you or someone you love; so help us save a woman’s life today. “Make It Your Mission” to fight heart disease in women and stop the No.1 killer.

· The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women campaign asks you to bring your network into our network. Tell five women you want them to live, and we can help stop heart disease in our lifetime.

Calls To Action

· “Make It Your Mission” to fight heart disease in women. Give five women you care about the power to save their lives at GoRedForWomen.org.

Tell Five and “Make It Your Mission”:

· Represent

o Register for the movement at GoRedForWomen.org.

o Go Red. The American Heart Association asks you to wear your red dress pin proudly to show your support.

o Share your experience. To share your healthy choices and connect with women who are speaking up for women’s heart health nationwide, go to GoRedForWomen.org or visit us on Facebook.

· Volunteer

o Take action. To find your affiliate, go to GoRedForWomen.org. Then, contact your local American Heart Association office to see how you can get involved with Go Red For Women.

o For information in Spanish and to learn about Go Red efforts in the Hispanic community, go to GoRedCorazon.org.

· Give

o Make a difference. Donations that fund lifesaving research and educational programs are needed so that our daughters, sisters and mothers have a chance to fight this silent killer.

o “Make It Your Mission” to fight heart disease in women by donating to the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign.

· Change

o Make lifestyle choices to reduce your risk for heart disease. Take the Go Red Heart CheckUp to find out your risk.

o Be a BetterU. Go Red BetterU is a free, 12-week online makeover that can change your life. Choose to be a BetterU at GoRedForWomen.org.

· Advocate

o Learn CPR. Because 80 percent of cardiac arrests happen at home, the life you save with CPR is most likely to be a loved one.

o Spread the word. “Make It Your Mission” to fight heart disease in women by joining the American Heart Association’s You’re the Cure grassroots network and advocating for policies to promote women’s heart health.

Statistics

· Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death among women 20 and older, killing about one woman every minute.

· More women die of heart disease than the next four causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

· One in three American women die of cardiovascular diseases, compared to one in 30 women who die of breast cancer.

· Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.

2011-01-07T12:43:00.000-05:00

I still cannot believe it is January 2011!!! January's typically have not always been the best months for me but this year, I am determined to make change. As the anniversary of my heart attack looms, I am reminded of the important questions I should ask myself everyday. First and foremost, am I being heart healthy today? Am I making smart choices? What about stress??? The caviat that seems to have no magical solution to it so when I start to feel stressed, I just hug my son and say thank you God.

I read this story on AOL today and I wanted to share it...the story literally hit home to me...

By Health.com

In the fall of 2006, Vicki Riedel felt more tired than usual. Riedel, the executive director of development at the Emory University Winship Cancer Institute in Atlanta, had always been pretty athletic (she'd played on a tennis team the previous fall), but she started to feel a mild tightness in her chest when she climbed stairs. It crossed her mind that her symptoms could be heart related, but she was busy with work and family at the time and dismissed the thought.

By the end of the year Riedel had undergone an angioplasty to remove a major blockage in one of her coronary arteries; she had been close to a heart attack.

This is Riedel's story, from diagnosis to treatment to recovery.

My 50th Birthday

In early November for my 50th birthday, I went on a trip to Jacksonville with a dear friend. We were trying to enjoy the beach, take walks, work out, chat over wine, that sort of thing. But I just really didn't feel good physically.

I didn't want to alarm my girlfriend, so I tried to ignore it. But one morning we got up to take a power walk on the beach, and I couldn't go a hundred yards. That was inconceivable, so I let her know that I thought something was wrong. On the way back to Atlanta, I called my doctor. After I told the nurse my symptoms, she insisted that I be there at 7:30 the next morning.

I Started to Panic

When I arrived at my doctor's office, the nurse marched me right downstairs to the stress test lab. I was hooked up to the wires and put on the treadmill. For someone who considers herself to be fairly athletic, the stress test was agony. They asked me to keep going, if I could, but I just couldn't do it. Something was wrong. We were all a little alarmed, I think.

I went to another building for a kind of heart CT scan. There was no feedback at all from the technician, but the doctor explained that he would give me a call as soon as he had the results. I went back to my office and worked, which helped get my mind off it. The doctor called me at about 5 o'clock. He told me that he wanted me in the hospital as soon as possible. He said I needed to take blood thinners to prepare myself for the catheterization lab the next morning. At that point I got a little panicked.

Health.com: 7 Causes of High Cholesterol

The Angiogram

A catheterization lab feels a bit like an operating room -- real high tech, combined with high touch. I think there were six, eight, 10 people in the room at times.

They numb the place in your groin where they make the incision, and then they just thread the catheter up the artery to your heart. I was calm but anxious to hear the results.

The doctor very calmly explained to me that 95 percent of my left anterior descending artery was blocked. That artery is called the widow maker -- or the widower maker, in my case. The other arteries were fine, no damage to the heart muscle. I hadn't had a heart attack, but it was a really, really close call.

An Angioplasty

If the blockage is less than 70 percent, they usually just put you on statins and talk to you about exercise and diet. But when it's more than 70 percent and they can insert a stent, they typically do it right then and there.

We waited for an interventional cardiologist to arrive. He explained that they were going to perform an angioplasty. If I chose to, I could look at the screen and see what they were doing. When they put the stent in, I did feel it a little bit. It wasn't particularly comfortable or uncomfortable -- I just felt a little something going in there.

Health.com: What Blocked Arteries Look Like in the Body

A short time later I was back in my room. I didn't experience much discomfort -- no nausea, nothing like that. Following the procedure the primary discomfort was at the incision site, where they had put the catheter in. That was fairly painful and quite bruised, but it healed quickly.

A Good Night's Rest

The doctors had explained to me that I would feel better very quickly because I hadn't been getting enough blood to my heart. And I immediately did feel quite a bit better. I think I looked better, too. One of the things that had alarmed me during that weekend to the beach was when I glanced in the mirror as we were preparing to go out to dinner and did a double take because I looked kind of gray.

Now that I'm getting adequate oxygen circulation I feel more rested. I hadn't been sleeping very well prior to the procedure, which I'd attributed to age and perimenopause and hormones -- all the stuff that you start thinking about when you turn 50.

Health.com: Supplements for Cholesterol: What Works?

Lifestyle Changes

Since the procedure, I've been on a statin in order to get my LDL cholesterol count down to 70. I try to get regular exercise, and I've modified my diet. I've always eaten lots of salad and fish -- but because I didn't have a weight problem, I'd also freely add butter, eat full-fat ice cream or snack on salty chips. I've reduced my saturated fat and salt intake, and I cut out the butter.

Health.com: Which Statin Will Lower Your Cholesterol?

But the biggest change for me after the procedure was emotional. If I felt any little blip or any little pain, I thought I was going to have a fatal heart attack. I had some real fears about death. Intellectually, I knew that there was no blockage. But it was such an affront to my whole being to realize how close I came.

I still have trouble accepting that coronary artery disease is a term that applies to me. I need to own that and accept it.

Stress Hurt My Health

To understand how the blockage developed, my physician and I looked at my family history, my diet and lifestyle, and my cholesterol levels. None of it added up to the extent of blockage that I had. And then we looked at my stress levels.

Health.com: How Stress Can Break Your Heart -- Literally

The realization that stress was the probable cause was so hard for me to deal with. I've got a very demanding, fulfilling and challenging job, yet I have to keep my life in balance. It's a continual process.

This was a tremendous wake-up call for me. I think the most important thing is to really listen to your body; it will tell you so much. We need to take care of ourselves and work for balance so that we don't put too much stress on ourselves.

So today and everyday...listen to your heart....

2010-12-16T20:51:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a year can bring. Christmas is just around the corner and I am very much looking forward to the year ahead. I feel so incredibly blessed for the love and life of my son, my husband, my family and my friends. I really think that God has a way of always putting things into perspective and though the years I have continued to grow.

There is no question that everyday I miss my parents. I miss them for me but most of all I miss them for my son. Grandparents are wonderful and I wish my parents were here for him. I know they are in spirit though and I also believe it is their "wings" that got Carter and I though some really rough patches in the past two years. There is nothing more painful than having a doctor say that there is nothing else we can do but wait and then there is the waiting. Carter was in God's hands and nine hours later turned around. We joked it was the binky but as the the doctor told us...he had never seen a baby ween off an epinephrine drip. We are truly blessed.

Sometimes I forget that I had a heart attack and surgery last January. I had a 70 percent blockage in my LAD. A doctor just yesterday called it the "widow maker". I had never heard that before and suddenly I was reminded of my mortality and how truly blessed and lucky I am. As Women we tend to put everyone before ourselves but it important to remember that you need to make your health a priority because without you, who would take care of them! I have every intention of scaring every girl that comes into my son's life:) Seriously, with his eyes I am in trouble!!!!!

So, as the weather outside is frightful and the fire is so delightful and since we have places to go...plow the snow, plow the snow, plow the snow:)

Have a blessed, healthy, happy and WONDERFUL Holiday and ditto for the New YEAR!!!!

To my sister in Iraq...come home safely. I love you! Thank you for laying under the Christmas tree with me for so many years and smuggling our jelly jar shots of Coca~cola. You started my addiction!

Until next time..LISTEN TO YOUR HEART

Deanna

2010-12-12T20:47:00.013-05:00

Redskins prepare for second half!

With some of the amazing kids from "Recess on the River"!

I have been asked, why do you do pageants? Is it for the crown? Well as much as I love a little bling, today was yet another great reminder as to the opportunities that the crown offers and the difference you can make. I feel so blessed and honored to volunteer my time with the American Heart Association. They offer so many great community programs and enhance the life of so many with education, events and even making dreams come true. One of the many great programs is "Recess by the River".

"Recess by the River" is a day full of fun and educational activities, Recess by the River empowers D.C.’s kids to lead stronger, healthier lives. Presented by CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Recess by the River is an annual event thrown by the American Heart Association with support from D.C. Parks and Recreation and National Association of Teen Fitness and Exercise. This kickoff event engaged over two hundred kids from Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 in the District. Due to D.C. having one of the highest Child Obesity ratings, Recess by the River plays an integral part in giving kids a second chance at a long healthy life.

· In the District of Columbia, over 35% of children are overweight or obese—making it one of the highest levels of childhood obesity in the nation.

· Over 1,500 children in Washington DC’s Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 have been empowered to live healthier lives through our Recess by the River program.

· Nearly one out of every three children and adolescents are overweight or obese, making childhood obesity one of our nation’s leading health threats

· Nearly 25 million overweight and obese children and teens run the risk of earlier onset of adult disease such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes

"Recess by the River"

With one of my favorite USO people!

Today, selected members of the "Recess by the River" along with Carefirst and GlaxoSmithKline were presented an award at the WASHINGTON REDSKINS VS TAMPA BAY BUCCANNEERS game during the half time show.

I, along with Miss Teen International 2010, Juliana Mckee were honored to accept the award given by the Washington Redskins on behalf of the American Heart Association. (the USO was also awarded today for their incredible work they do for our military soldiers and their families. I felt VERY honored to share the field!)

With Scott Shepard, VP Sales an d Marketing, Washington Redskins and Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International 2010

A huge thank you to Glaxo Smith Kline for the wonderful buffet supplied to all of the children and Scott Shepherd, VP Sales and Marketing, Washington Redskins for helping to make this day possible.

One of the best moments of my day was when one of the amazing children came up to me and said, "I can't thank you enough for this day". This is what life is about....what a great day. Pouring rain and cold but what a great day!

Until next time...listen to your heart....D

2010-12-10T11:26:00.000-05:00

This week has been one of a journey. Carter had a GJ tube placed for feeding. Due to being born at 23 weeks, we have gone through a lot of complications but I think it has made our family stronger. Carter has shown my husband and myself that we can make it through anything. We are beyond blessed to have Carter as our son and daily he inspires me. I have to admit, the most exciting part of my day is when he wakes up and smiles at me! Sometimes I just want to wake him up...which I know we should never wake a sleeping baby but his smile should be seen and shared daily! (this is a GUSHING Mother!)

I also, this week, was contacted by MORE Magazine. I had a great interview by such an accomplished writer, Tamara Jones. I look forward to when the piece comes out.

Can you believe Christmas is just a few weeks away!

Many blessings and never forget to LISTEN TO YOUR HEART!

D

2010-12-10T10:38:00.001-05:00

WISHING EVERYONE A HEART HEALTHY,HAPPY AND BLESSED HOLIDAY SEASON!
THE LINZ FAMILY~ANDY,DEANNA,CARTER,HALO,JOSIE AND JACK

2010-11-23T09:09:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is just a few days a way! Its hard to believe. As I was running on the treadmill this morning, it got me thinking. What will I eat for Thanksgiving? Why is it when we work out we think of food! It can be an evil cycle.

The average Thanksgiving meal is over 3000 calories! Throw in the leftovers and we are talking at least a week of the possibility of not making the right heart healthy choices.

So on Thanksgiving, its important to remember portion control. EAT, ENJOY FAMILY AND FRIENDS....but WALK. Eat more Turkey and less stuffing. Start with a salad. Drink a lot of water to help fill you up. Most of all remember your heart. I know its just one day but in life, every moment counts!

For some great heart healthy recipes check out http://www.heart.org/

Don't forget today and everyday...LISTEN TO YOUR HEART and have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving!

2010-11-20T18:29:00.002-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a little girl that dreamed big. She watched pageants and loved princesses. Her hope was to one day be a princess and of course marry her prince....then she lived happily ever after!

With Juliana Mckee, Miss Teen International 2010 and Adrienne Watson Carver, Mrs Maryland Galaxy 2010

With Juliana Mckee, Miss Teen International 2010 and such an amazing person!

Waitng to start in the parade route!

Our self portrait!

I love Disney, fairy tales and dreams. Today was such a great day at the Thanksgiving parade.Can you believe it Thanksgiving already? WOW, time passes sooooo quickly!

There is nothing better than a child's smile and the holidays to make them say things like, "look at the princess" which opens my heart every time. Who doesn't love hope, dreams and a pageant queen at a parade. Lets face it, we love it more than them as my cheeks hurt from smiling so much. As a Mom, every time a child looked at me,waved and smiled it made me just want to hug Carter more and more (as if that is possible) as that's where dreams begin. Hey, I still dream EVERYDAY!

So the day was brisk but beautiful and I was joined by Miss Teen International 2010, Juliana McKee. She is such an inspiration. I fell blessed that I have gotten to know her in the past few months. Her journey continues to amaze me.

So today and everyday...listen to your heart!

Deanna

Parents Photo Faves

2010-11-18T07:53:00.000-05:00

Parents Photo Faves

Carters in the Parents Magazine Cutest Baby Contest! Don't forget to click the link above to vote!

2010-11-16T08:39:00.000-05:00

This past weekend at the Veteran's Health Screening was an enlightening experience for me as many questions were asked. It was great to see the community outreach and also share our message on making healthy choices to live a heart healthy life. I thought the questions were great one's so I thought I would share some information. When it comes to your heart, there is no question that should be left unanswered!

Learn about Heart Failure~

The heart is a muscle. Its pumps blood through the body. In heart failure, your hearts pumping power is weakened. Blood flows more slowly. Your body works harder to move blood.

Common cause if heart failure include

Heart attack
High Blood Pressure
Narrow or blocked arteries
Diabetes
Overweight
Smoking
Alcohol abuse
Heart Birth Defects Injury to the heart
Illegal drugs
Some cancer drugs

What is interesting to not is that 4 out of 5 of these are preventatable by making the RIGHT choices!

Signs and symptoms~

Feeling Tired
Shortness of breath
weight gain (water retention)
Trips to the bathroom at night
Swollen ankles, legs and/or belly

What is the difference between a heart attack and heart failure you ask??

A heart attack happens when blood can't reach part of your heart. That part starves fore oxygen. As a result, the heart may not pump blood as it should. This can result in permanent damage to the heart, or death.

Coronary artery disease is a common underlying cause of a heart attack. Your coronary arteries are the blood vessels that bring blood and oxygen to your heart. Coronary artery disease happens when fatty deposits, called plaque, build up inside the coronary arteries. This substance can narrow or block coronary arteries. As a result, the heart gets less blood.

How can you reduce your risk of a heart attack~

Stop smoking

If you smoke, quit. If someone in your household smokes, encourage them to quit. We know it's tough. But it's tougher to recover from a heart attack or stroke or to live with chronic heart disease. Commit to quit.

Choose good nutrition

A healthy diet is one of the best weapons you have to fight cardiovascular disease. The food you eat (and the amount) can affect other controllable risk factors: cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and overweight. Choose nutrient-rich foods — which have vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients but are lower in calories — over nutrient-poor foods. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole-grain and high-fiber foods, fish, lean protein and fat-free or low-fat dairy products is the key. And to maintain a healthy weight, coordinate your diet with your physical activity level so you're using up as many calories as you take in.

Select American Heart Association cookbooks

Reduce blood cholesterol

Fat lodged in your arteries is a disaster waiting to happen. Sooner or later it could trigger a heart attack or stroke. You've got to reduce your intake of saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol and get moving. If diet and physical activity alone don't get those numbers down, then medication may be the key. Take it just like the doctor orders. Here's the lowdown on where those numbers need to be: Total Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dLLDL (bad) Cholesterol: If you're at low risk for heart disease: Less than 160 mg/dLIf you're at intermediate risk for heart disease: Less than 130 mg/dLIf you're at high risk for heart disease (including those with existing heart disease or diabetes): Less than 100mg/dLHDL (good) Cholesterol: 40 mg/dL or higher for men and 50 mg/dL or higher for womenTriglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dLVisit our Cholesterol website

Lower high blood pressure

It's the single largest risk factor for stroke. Stroke is the No. 3 killer and one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. Stroke recovery is difficult at best and you could be disabled for life. Shake that salt habit, take your medications as recommended by your doctor and get moving. Those numbers need to get down and stay down. Your goal is less than 120/80 mmHg.

Be physically active every day

Be physically active every day. Research has shown that getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity on 5 or more days of the week can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and keep your weight at a healthy level. But something IS better than nothing. If you're doing nothing now, start out slow. Even 10 minutes at a time may offer some health benefits. Studies show that people who have achieved even a moderate level of fitness are much less likely to die early than those with a low fitness level.

Start! a walking program

Choose a BetterU: our free 12-week physical activity program for women

Aim for a healthy weight

Obesity is an epidemic in America, not only for adults but also for children. An epidemic is when a health problem is out of control and many people are affected by it. Fad diets and supplements are not the answer. Good nutrition, controlling calorie intake and physical activity are the only way to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity places you at risk for high cholesterol, high blood pressure and insulin resistance, a precursor of type 2 diabetes — the very factors that heighten your risk of cardiovascular disease. Your Body Mass Index (BMI) can help tell you if your weight is healthy.

Calculate your Body Mass Index

Manage diabetes

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of diabetes-related death. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease due to a variety of risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity.

Reduce stress

Some scientists have noted a relationship between coronary heart disease risk and stress in a person's life that may affect the risk factors for heart disease and stroke. For example, people under stress may overeat, start smoking or smoke more than they otherwise would. Research has even shown that stress reaction in young adults predicts middle-age blood pressure risk.

Get stress management tips and tools

Limit alcohol

Want to learn more? Log onto http://www.heart.org/!!!! I did and look what I was able to learn and share!!!!

Remember 80% of living a heart healthy life can be controlled by making the right choices...EVERYDAY!

So today and everyday, don't forget to LISTEN TO YOUR HEART

D

2010-11-14T13:25:00.000-05:00

I have such memories of my Brother and with the Country Music Awards, well...he should have been there this year and every year. My Big Bro has always been an inspiration to me. We were far enough apart that we never shared a school and in school years were really years apart but he is such an incredible talent.

Time and life and certainly with the loss of our Father, I think he really put on the back burner so many of his talents. Todd can paint or draw anything and has an octave range that makes me sound male. He also can play ANY instrument but can't read a lick of music. I wish I had that talent!

I think his artistic skills came from our Mother and his stubbornness and greatness from my Father.

I was just thinking of hero's today and my big bro, Todd came to mind....

2010-11-13T19:07:00.008-05:00

I think at times I take things for granted. Because of my personal experience, I assume that everyone has lived through heart health issues or is familiar with its signs and symptoms.Today proved my theory wrong. I was very honored to be volunteering with AHA at the Veteran's Health Event at the Washington Redskins Stadium today. I am a proud military spouse and also a heart attack survivor so to me spreading the message is a given. We move A LOT in the military and having the opportunity to get a health screening in a community environment is so important. It raises awareness and also creates a bond in a community that most are transient to. The health screening expo offered a free health screening for military veterans and their families. Its important to know your numbers and understand what they mean. 80% of heart health issues can be managed by making the right lifestyle choices and knowing your cholesterol numbers, blood pressure, sugar levels and body mass index all play a vital part of the equation and can save your life.

I was so surprised today that so many men and women had no understanding of heart disease and as Women, did not have an awareness of Go Red and their movement. Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International 2010 helped to spread the word by sharing her story about her cousin Erick who passed away at the age of 12 and touched so many in doing so. She truly is an amazing young women.

Heart disease is the number ONE killer of women. It doesn't discriminate in age, health, gender or social state. I know first hand. After losing my parents and my own heart attack and surgery, I realized that YOU MUST BE your own advocate.

Listen to your heart...today and everyday....

American Heart Association! Do you know your numbers?

Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International and I . Her cousin Erick's story always humbles me. She is such a great spokesperson for AHA and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

With Congresswoman, Donna F Edwards, 4th District, Maryland. What a beautiful lady and HEART HEALTHY!

In the spirit of being Heart Healthy, Juliana Hola Hoops for health! She was REALLY GOOD!

A beautiful future teen intl! Her winning moment!

With the team from the American College of Physicians and Glaxo Smith Kline

Listen to your heart! D

2010-11-06T18:19:00.001-05:00

November 6 2010....it was a great day. It brought me back to a lot of memories. I still have a hard time believing I had a heart attack and stent placement in January of 2010 when everything seems so long ago. My parents seems so much more clear and I wonder if its because I still can't believe what happened, happened.

The turnout was amazing and I was in amazing company! I was in the company of Miss Teen International. Juliana Mckee and Miss International, Ashley Smith. Yolanda Makle, Ms Galaxy also joined us as well as Gail Mates (the national spokesperson for GO RED!)) so my company was not only beautiful but inspiring.

DC Beautiful queens, Chelsea sang the National Anthemn and was AMAZING, Yolanda Makle, Ms Galaxy so stunning, Beautiful lady (insert here:). Juliana Mckee, Miss Teen Intl, Deanna Linz (me:) Mrs Northeast Intl, Gail Mates (so inspiring!), Ashley Smith, Miss International!

We finished the walk!

Gail Mates, national spokesperson for Go Red doing an amazing job!

With a future Miss Teen International, Sam! She was so beautiful!

Juliana and Ashley sporting their International track suits!

Juliana Mckee, Miss Teen International and I with HEART MAN!

Listen to your heart! D

2010-11-01T17:11:00.000-05:00

Carter Thomas Linz, our little dinosaur!

So excited its Halloween!

Carters first corn maze!

Halo not so excited with the costume

Josie as a black cat:)

It is hard to believe that Halloween has passed! The air seems to have suddenly taken on its holiday chill yet I have still yet to find all of our winter coats in the garage. Its seems every year things go missing much like socks in the dryer!!!!

So the week started with Halloween and as a proud Mom I must say that Carter made a very cute dragon! We also attempted to do family holiday photos which turned out to be a little crazy with the pets. We managed to get the family photo but will be returning to the studio next weekend for pictures of Carter.

I am also looking forward to the heart walk of DC this weekend! Our team is growing and I am hoping to reach our team goal. Please visit our page and learn what you can do to help in the fight against heart disease.

I hope you can join us in the journey! Only 4 more days until the walk!

http://heartwalk.kintera.org/dc/deannamlinz

Off to a great start to the week.....don't forget to....

Listen to your heart!

2010-10-29T08:24:00.000-05:00

When I was young, we moved around...A LOT. My Dad was a businessman and that's just what you did at the time. I was a school transplant and I am sure my life was one of bullying at the time. I was never the popular one or perfect by any standard. When I was in 4th grade there was a girl that wanted to beat me up everyday and my parents said, "get out there and fight". They weren't bad parents, its just what you did in a time where guns, knives and toxins weren't ever a part of any battle. I was never a fighter but I did gain some back bone in the process. My biggest fight was with a few neighborhood bully's. I was on roller skates. Need I say more:)

There are two worlds and people are innately kind. As time has gone on for me I am often amazed at the way we as humans treat each other. Its been through the love and kindness of friends and teachers over time that have gotten me through some of my toughest times. Its also been through my "friends" that I have come to realize that sometimes friends aren't really friends. This brings me to the real bully. TECHNOLOGY! Hey, I love it, live it...twitter, blog, cell phones, Facebook etc but lets face it, its puts your whole world out there and also allows others to see in and have there way with it anonymously.

I had the honor of judging the Miss and Teen International pageant last summer. I was so amazed at the maturity level of so many of these young ladies and many of the trials they have gone through at such a young age. It stuck in my mind that about 90% of them on their paperwork had bullying and self esteem issues as the number one thing that young women deal with today.

This is a huge issue. I have seen so much in the VOY world and assumptions made on who is posting what. College boards are no better and cater to negativity. Now I would love to tell you this all this stops at 18, 19 or 21 but even as grown married women it prevails. It is said and just makes me wonder why these forums are out there?????

In a land of information, technology and a vast amount of opinions...I ask....do we cater to bullying? Do we encourage others by actions within ourselves? Do we walk the walk we all talk about?

Listen, I realize that we cannot control everyone. There is a reason why tabloids exist, we all slow down at the sight of a wreck and, "If it bleeds it leads" comes into the news cycle. I just wish for one day or even one moment in time we could turn on the news, the computer, our phones and our heart and just be happy. Happy for everything around us and everyone in our lives. Then again, maybe its the pageant in me and world peace is just too much to ask.

Listen to your heart...D

2010-10-27T15:45:00.000-05:00

I realized today as I was making dinner that I am a NUT and I need a GPS for everything in my life. Lets recap....in the past week I had a groomer tell me my dog Jack needed ADHD medication. Jack has his own personality and is a good dog...he is just Jack. So I picked up Halo (my perfect pup) and Jack from the groomer and drove off in a huff. Lefts face it, fur or not, FAMILY IS FAMILY right? So...I was leaving the groomer and every car seemed to honk at me. I was thinking it was a bad day until I heard someone say...YOUR WALLET. Yes, that's right...my ADHD pup apparently has an ADHD Mother and my wallet was on top of my car. Thank goodness for great Samaritan's!

So move forward a few days and I did the Great Start! Heart Walk for Baltimore MD. The day was beautiful and the GPS had its own mind but we arrived. So half way around the inner harbor I realized that my cell phone was still on top of my car. So the walk turned into a run as we ran back...but we did join back in and the phone was still there...THANK GOODNESS!

So...today...I am cooking all Rachel Ray inspired. We are working out, trying to be healthy and I am venturing out on my culinary skills. I opened the oven to turn the pork chops and...here we go...my glasses fell off the top of my head and into the oven. THE BACK OF THE OVEN!

I fished them out before demise but come on....ayayayayaya...so even in a stressful week

listen to your heart...d

2010-10-23T20:38:00.001-05:00

Miss Teen International, Juliana Mckee, members of the "Got Heart" team and I

Around 2 am this morning I woke up. It was one of those nights that a lot was on my mind. I was so afraid of over sleeping that I did not sleep!Today was the Greater Baltimore Heart Walk. IIt actually turned out to be a much warmer day than expected.

We needed to be there by 8:30 am so I knew this meant MUST LEAVE EARLY as we are over and hour and a half away. So after a failed GPS and my phone that I left on top of my car (anyone who knows me may see a pattern this week for me) we were off.

There were a lot of walkers. Some for themselves, some for others and some just because. It was amazing, The Baltimore Inner Harbor was beautiful and the sun could not have shined down on us any brighter.

A couple of things came to mind to me today...why am I walking...

After my heart attack and post surgery January 18. 2010

And who I am walking for.....my Mom and Dad who passed away from Heart Disease at 54 and 56years of age and ...

My son and husband.....

Today was a good day...never mind that, it was a great day!

2010-10-21T18:18:00.000-05:00

This weekend we are doing the walk for the American Heart Association in Baltimore. I am looking forward to that. My first journey into walks was in 2001 for ," Train to End a Stroke". My Father passed away on June 7th and it was just something I thought I could do. He passed away of a heart attack after a double valve replacement and not a stroke but my Mother had a stroke in her 30's. (and passed away at 56 after complications from surgery at our house).

I had a dream about my parents the other day. My Dad always said to me when you give up your dreams you die. I do feel like he talks to me sometimes.

Listen to your heart......

2010-10-11T12:40:00.000-05:00

This weekend was a good weekend. I really don't think we could have asked for better weather. Andy, Carter, Jack, Halo and I drove to Richmond, VA to attend the VA International pageants. The drive was beautiful and we arrived in enough time to check into the Hilton and make the pageant. Once we were unpacked and ready...dogs had been taken out (we love pet friendly hotels!) we headed to the car. Well we ran into a slight problem initially. We had locked the keys in the car and the spare was MIA. After a bit of chaos, we made it to the pageant.

Andy and I have been attending Deshawn and Marcellas pageants for 3 years and they just keep getting better. They are the Directors of the VA and MD Intl pageants for Miss and Mrs. The pageant ran well and on time and soon the new queens were announced! Congrats to Deshauna Barber, Miss VA International and Rebecca Crossen, Mrs Va International 2011!!!!! Both were beautiful and will represent VA well all year and at nationals!

In attendance were also Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International, Ashley Smith, Miss International and the devine Mrs International, Shannon Devine! Halle Grace, Shannon's daughter gave Carter his first kiss:)

Sherry Benson, MD Teen Director, Joy Pfister, Carolina Int'l Director and myself.

Halle Grace Devine and Carter Linz...Carters firts kiss. We are already planning their wedding:)

In the amazing company of beautiful royalty!

Myself, Shannon Devine (Mrs Int'l), Juliana Mckee (Miss Teen Int'l) and of course Halle Grace...a future Miss Teen Int'l!

With Rebecca Crossen, Mrs Virginia International 2011! Congrats beauty!

With some of my favorite ladies!

With the AMAZING Mrs Devine and Mrs International 2010!

Juliana Mckee, Miss Teen Int'l looking like perfection!

With Cristen. She is one of the most beautiful ladies and so sweet too! Love her!

Until next time...listen to your heart...D

2010-10-07T21:39:00.002-05:00

You know life can teach you so much sometimes. We all can dwell in our own pity parties, reflect on the negativity in life and watch LIFETIME until our life seems so much better but in reality, we all wait for the train wreck. When it happens, it is our moment to justify every other wrong doing in life.

I spent a good portion of today at Walter Reed in the Ortho department. It was amazing. The spirit lies in the soul of those who are willing to believe. Today, I felt it. I met and saw some of the most amazing people. I said to my husband, there was spirit. Spirit in the doctors, spirit in the nurses, spirit in the staff.

I have been around A LOT of medical personnel in my life but today was so inspiring. In a world that so many had lost limbs or faced with the challenges of walking or movement came the most spirit of all.

They weren't missing anything. They had Love, God and family and the belief that anything is possible. I was humbled today and honored to be in the company of so many amazing people.

Thank you for all who serve our wonderful country and those who stand with them, before them and behind them. The future comes with a past, the past comes with a future and today and this moment comes with the honor to live in both for a mere second.

2010-09-26T18:05:00.004-05:00

Washington Redskins Health, Wellness and Fitness EXPO

I always find it interesting when someone says they will never have a heart attack or they live "healthy". I once thought that too. There are also those who admit to having heart disease then grab the most unhealthy thing on the way out the door to go smoke. I always "thought" I was healthy and while I may not dive into Twinkies, I am sure all of my food choices have not always been the best.

Yesterday was a great day as I was able to give back and share my story through the American Heart Association and Go Red at the Redskins Stadium. I was also able to share my day with Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International, whom is an amazing young lady. She is clearly passionate and knowledgeable on heart disease and stroke and honestly I was completely impressed. I am not sure I was that eloquent at 18 (ok I wasn't:) She shared her story about her cousin Erik and her own personal struggles with self image and making the right food choices. She is an amazing spokesperson for the American Heart Association and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Thank you Roxana Hoveyda and the American Heart Association for allowing us to be a part of such an amazing event!

While I was there I decided to walk the walk if I was sharing and had my cholesterol checked, body fat (yes, that was fun), bone density and blood pressure. Since my heart attack and stint placement in January I have kept track but it had been some time. Yes, we did take photos and my finger stick did not prove to be successful at first but try and try again...success.

So I am going to share. More because it helps me to be accountable and make the changes I need too. My husband likes to hide his numbers but I encourage you to share and work with a family member or friend. Yes, weight is important but these numbers can also save your life.

Cholesterol total: 170
HDL (Happy cholesterol:)))) 59 (should be higher)
LDL (Lousy cholesterol) 82
Trig (much like math just painful but my numbers where good) 145
BP 128/79 (almost text book!)
Body Fat: 22.6.... yes, Miss Teen was lower.....much lower.....
Lung Capacity 350. This has always been an issue for me. Raised in Florida, allergies...etc..

I know making the time to go visit your primary care physician can be tough. Health fairs are great for gathering information. It literally took 10 minutes. Also log on to http://www.goredforwomen.org/ and take the health quiz.

The day ended with a splurge on veggie chips...beats Twinkies...right!:)))))

2010-09-13T13:19:00.002-05:00

2010-09-10T14:01:00.000-05:00

Its hard to believe that tomorrow marks the 9 year anniversary of 911. I remember it all so well. I was at HSN as a buyer and we had a "Todays Special" for a brand I had at the time ALOETTE and it started at 7am. I was siting at the producers desk with him and the brand launched. We recieved a call saying that a plane had crashed into a building which is why our sales where down. It was breaking news. The original report to us was that it was a small plane which did not turn out to be the case. Soon after, we heard another plane crashed and I remember running to the dreen room to see the news. I walked in to see the horrific replay of what was going on. It was a moment of silence. As the day went on and we returned to the office everyone's life was on hold. Where we being attacked? What about our children. Should we stay on the air. Those with children left as I would have too. All I really wanted to do was to hug my family. I remember my Father had just passed away and I wondered what would he do. What would he say. I felt lost as sooooo many others did.

My future husband deployed to Iraq as many did. It was a time that no one knew what the outcome would be. All we knew was that you came to my house and killed my so many innocent people. You came to my house to create fear. To scare us....Well, we didn't lay down. Today, my sister is still deployed to Iraq and my husband went again in 2006.

Saying all that, the one thing that comes to mind to me today is my Father. He was an incredible man. The recent news of a Pastor in Florida I just find so disturbing. I am glad he backed away. So many have lost lives, fought for life and this just created such undo tension in an AMERICAN society where Muslims do and should have a free right of religion. They are American and because they live here, they have the choice to practice whatever denomination they believe in. As ALL AMERICANS do. This is what we fight for.

My Father once said to me that a church is wherever you choose to believe. God hears you no matter where you are. My God may not be your God and you may not believe in everything I believe in. The one consistant is the greater good. Please love and huge your neighbors AND REMEMBER AND PRAY FOR THOSE THAT ARE DEPLOYED AND THOSE WHOM HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES SO THAT WE CAN...be free to choose.

2010-09-01T11:33:00.001-05:00

Did you know that September is the National Cholesterol Education Month?

My family history and heart disease is strong. My parents both passed of heart disease and many members of my family have constantly struggled with what I call the cholesterol juggle. You know the juggle. The pounds of cheerios we eat, cholesterol meds and any other food that swears to help...well, we just DO IT! The one thing we often forget to do is to get things checked. Its important to know your numbers and learn what they mean. My heart attack last January was a HUGE wakeup call for me. My total was under 200 and my LDL was 68. Everyone's body is different and mine just needed to be lower.

It may surprise you to know that cholesterol itself isn't bad. In fact, cholesterol is just one of the many substances created and used by our bodies to keep us healthy. Some of the cholesterol we need is produced naturally (and can be affected by your family health history), while some of it comes from the food we eat.

There are two types of cholesterol: "good" and "bad." It's important to understand the difference, and to know the levels of "good" and "bad" cholesterol in your blood. Too much of one type — or not enough of another — can put you at risk for coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Cholesterol comes from two sources: your body and food. Your liver and other cells in your body make about 75 percent of blood cholesterol. The other 25 percent comes from the foods you eat. Cholesterol is only found in animal products.

A cholesterol screening measures your level of HDL and LDL. HDL is the "good" cholesterol which helps keep the LDL (bad) cholesterol from getting lodged into your artery walls. A healthy level of HDL may also protect against heart attack and stroke, while low levels of HDL (less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women) have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease.

If you need to increase your HDL to your reach your goals, studies show that regular physical activity can help your body produce more HDLs. Reducing trans fats and eating a balanced, nutritious diet is another way to increase HDL. If these measures are not enough to increase your HDL to goal, your healthcare practitioner may prescribe a medication specifically to increase your HDLs

LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol. When too much of it circulates in the blood, it can clog arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

LDL cholesterol is produced naturally by the body, but many people inherit genes from their mother, father or even grandparents that cause them to make too much. Eating saturated fat, trans fats and dietary cholesterol also increases how much you have. If high blood cholesterol runs in your family, lifestyle modifications may not be enough to help lower your LDL blood cholesterol. Everyone is different, so work with your doctor to find a treatment plan that's best for you.

To learn more, log onto http://www.heart.org/ and don't ever forget to LISTEN TO YOUR HEART!

2010-08-05T14:11:00.002-05:00

There is strong evidence that fast treatment of stroke leads to better recovery and fewer complications. Data demonstrates clearly that complications from stroke shorten life span. Wouldn't you want to ensure that your health care system has all the needed resources, specialists, and tools to provide the best standard of care in a fast and effective manner?

A strong telemedicine network can help close important gaps. Telestroke provides a mechanism for faster diagnosis, evaluating treatment options, and other critical elements of the process in the medical community. Click here to help make your legislators aware of the need!

Minimizing the barriers to fast and comprehensive stroke treatment would be a strong investment in our citizens' health. We can't afford to overlook any option to help change these outcomes.

Take a moment now and urge priority consideration for this life-saving service.

2010-08-05T12:23:00.003-05:00

As early as today (Wednesday), the Senate will again try to pass critical Medicaid support for people with disabilities. If the Senate does not approve additional federal Medicaid funding to the states, they will be forced to cut benefits and services for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Every message from Easter Seals supporters like you will make a difference.

Act now! Urge your Senators to protect people with disabilities by voting to extend this enhanced federal Medicaid funding!

Medicaid is a lifeline for children and adults with disabilities. Because of the health care they get through the program, they are able to be successful in school, keep a job and live independent lives.

Thanks to Medicaid, a child with autism can get the speech therapy he needs, a teenager with spina bifida can get the wheelchair she needs to use to get around school, and an older person living with a chronic illness can see his doctor. Medicaid exists to help people who can't otherwise afford it, pay for critical services like these.

But state budgets have been squeezed by this recession. With less tax revenue coming in, they're facing the prospect of devastating cutbacks. They need help filling the gaps and keeping important programs afloat. They're counting on support from Washington.

The federal government has always shared the financial responsibility for Medicaid. With so many people in need and the states so strapped for cash, this is the moment for the Senate to step up with additional funding.

When enough of their constituents weigh in, elected officials listen. That's why we can't let Senators cast their vote again without hearing our voices. But it has to happen fast. Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

I really appreciate your help on this critically important issue. Dedicated Easter Seals supporters like you are the difference between winning and losing these legislative battles.

2010-07-29T16:17:00.003-05:00

The USO community has always impressed and inspired me with their dedication to our troops and their families. But I have never been so amazed by the impact that dedication can have. My sister is currently deployed and my husband has been deployed multiple times. You...WE...can make a difference!

A week ago we set an ambitious goal of providing 100,000 calls home for our troops by July 31. USO supporters like you have stepped up in a major way. We've surpassed our original goal and are now looking to enable 250,000 connections between troops and their loved ones.

This outpouring of support has been truly inspirational and will mean so much to our brave men and women. We've still got 85,000 more calls to go and only a few days to make it happen. Your gift now could be the one that puts us over the top.

Donate now to put us over the top and connect our troops with their loved ones.

The success of this campaign so far shows just how much we can do for our troops when we all come together.

Our troops put so much on the line when they make the decision to serve and defend our country. So when there's an opportunity to make even a small positive difference in their lives, we've got to be there.

Providing troops with a free way to get in touch with home and family is such a simple but effective way to do that. And because every dollar equals two calls back home, we can make a big impact.

With just 85,000 calls to go, we're almost there.

Make a donation now and put us over the top for our troops.

Thanks,

2010-07-29T10:33:00.003-05:00

There is a saying that the true character of someone is only seen by those who arent't looking. I am always shocked at the way a situation unfolds and the true character of someone when they have something to gain. It leaves me speechless as it is not in my character to look for fault but to learn and grow as a person with every situation. I guess God left the "perfect" jean out of my DNA so I don't ever judge anyone for anything except how they are in situations I have seen them in and ther reactions when things are tough. Humility is a wonderful trait but a hard one to swallow for some.

Never forget where you came from, never loose track of who you are....God has the ultimate power and the only one that should ever hold someone in judgement is him.

Always live to be the person you say you are, even when viewing others. The only shoes that you walked in are your own. Forgiveness, love, life and the glory to God are what this life is about.

2010-06-21T23:44:00.003-05:00

One of my greatest memories growing up is Christmas with my family. My family always had a way of making everything bright and beautiful. The year of the skates from my parents will always me monumental for me but the Christmas with my sister was one of the best. Growing up we shared a room for a while. I remember the yellow room in Georgia, the pink room....sleeping back to back to protect us from all the ghost and goblin's but mostly Christmas. I remember laying under the tree and looking up at the lights. We always wished upon each light and she always inspired me and made me feel safe. We went through a lot in life and unfortunately through the passing of our parents in death also. She is beautiful, inside and out. I was always so jealous of her beautiful cat eyes and raven hair.

My sister joined the US NAVY at 17 years of age. I was younger and didn't really understand at the time why she wanted to join so young but she seemed happy. This did not stop me from missing my big sis.

My sis, Denice, left the NAVY and went Army. She deploys this week for Iraq.

I love the USO, I love being a military spouse, sister, niece, daughter and Grand daughter of the United States Armed Services. I don't like the worry....Denice is a hero for me...she walks the walk and dances to her own song.

Denice~

May the lights shine on your face daily sis...I love you...be strong because that is just who you are. My coca cola smuggling sis. You are why I drink at least a 2 liter a day:)))) Love you sis....thank you for sharing the lights and the dreams with me. We will dance a million dances when you come back. Don't you dare ever forget that! We also still have that shopping trip. Imagine that!!!!! Shoes, cocktails and dreams...everything just fits even on a bad day.

I love you, we love you...be safe and come home.

Lil sis....scooter

2010-06-13T09:30:00.002-05:00

Its hard to believe one year ago yesterday, we brought Carter home from the NICU after 165 days. Ironically, yesterday was the NICU reunion from National Naval and it was great to catch up with some of the medical staff and nurses who helped Carter through many long days and nights. As Carter was the "Mayor" of the NICU I did tell Carter the picnic was just for him :)))) Its amazing how much and how quickly babies change and grow. There were so many beautiful children at the reunion. Great blessings to us all.

Its been a year of growth, learning as new parents and also self reflection. A baby does change everything. What a blessing children are. As I look at him smile and laugh this morning while pulling his socks off of his feet with great vigor...I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to the doctors, nurses, friends, family and mostly God for giving us the blessing of Carter Thomas Linz. Born at 23.4 weeks and 1 pound 8oz and 12 inches long. Today...22lbs and 34 inches long! Yes, like his Daddy, he is tall.

2010-06-08T06:20:00.000-05:00

I was sitting outside the other day just thinking. I was thinking about life, the songs that the birds sing, how the wind felt so sweet as it warmly swept across my cheeks and how the grass always looks greener when freshly mowed. The sky seemed so blue and I felt a peaceful moment. Its a rare passing I think in most any one's life and one that often passes without notice. I was reminded of the last time I felt this way and it was when I was sitting on the beach. The ocean has a way of talking to you like it is singing a lullaby just for you. It is the most amazing gift of God and nature and one we use often without thanks.

I am greatly saddened by the oil spill. The gulf of Mexico has been my sanctuary for a great deal of my life having grown up on the West Coast of Florida. The fact that this has happened without seemingly a lot of recourse to BP and with such little regard to nature and all if its gifts makes me sick.

What guidelines are in place to prevent this sort of drilling in the future? When will this be fixed?

I typically do not step into politics but I am sorry, Obama said he was down there a month ago and that we are resilient. That the sea life can bounce back in the next three years. Three years...tell that to those who live by the economy that tourism brings in. Tell that to Louisiana and neighboring states that have already been economically devastated.

And the wildlife thirsting for nourishment, covered in oil and dying.

Maybe if the oil spill was washing up on the Potomac...three years would be too long.

2010-06-01T13:30:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I love makeup. Lets face it, I just love being a girl. Makeup, shoes, hair product, shoes, clothes, shoes...did I mention shoes? The best thing is that even when I am bloated, they still fit!

Ok, so I have been on a bit of a revamping journey. It is spring/summer and that is always a good excuse to update a few things, right? (insert my husbands sigh here) This to me is the greatest aspect about being a women! We can change, change again and change back if we so deem appropriate! Gotta love it!

Memorial weekend was a good one for us. We traveled a bit, saw family and friends and said thank you to those that have served our country. This, of course, included my husband so I did give him a great big hug but don't push it honey..., "can you go put the clothes in the dryer." I did thank him for doing that also.

2010-05-25T10:10:00.000-05:00

I have heard, although not personally lived it, that there was a time in life that you could borrow a cup of sugar from your neighbor. This seems to be a reality on the "Real Housewives"...that is the real Real Housewives and not the varying reality shows which I feel pretty confident would be more likely to throw sugar or just lie about having any:) Saying that, do we really know our neighbors?

My husband grew up on a road in PA where many of the families still live and his friends have been friends for life. Most of the children have moved on but the parents and Grandparents have remained. This does seem to be a dying thing. Literally, once the older generation moves on the newer generation moves in. Doors locked, curtains drawn and the once social gathering around a neighborhood bonfire is gone.

My husband and I figured out yesterday that we do know our neighbors.....

We have Murreys Dad, Mysfa's Mom, Blankets Dad, Brownies Parents and Sugars parents.

So I guess I may not be able to borrow sugar but I can borrow something from my neighbors...puppy chow!

2010-05-24T19:47:00.000-05:00

Its hard to believe that the year is almost half way over! Is it really almost Memorial Day? I do love the summer. Something about white, sunshine and a pina colada just makes a day better. Throw in a childs laughter, a few waves and a good bikini wax and its pretty darn perfect. I'm not saying I am bikini ready yet but it is always good to be prepared:)

Every Memorial Day, Andy and I like to reflect on the story behind it. Certainly since living in DC we have embraced the opportunity to visit the history of this holiday in our nations capital with all of the monuments and museums. It is hard to believe that there are people who have forgotten what the history of Memorial Day is and only see it as a day off work or just the beginning of summer. So while brushing up on a bit of history today...I thought I would share....

(coutesy of http://www.usmemorialday.org/)

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

General John A. Logan

Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-B8172- 6403 DLC (b&w film neg.)]

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:

We cherish too, the Poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led,

It seems to signal to the skies

That blood of heroes never dies.

She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."

The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.

But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of "the last Monday in May". On April 19, 1999 Representative Gibbons introduced the bill to the House (H.R. 1474). The bills were referred the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Government Reform

So with all that being said...if you have a moment this weekend please visit http://www.uso.org/ or if you see a service member, say thank you. As a military spouse, I can tell you it makes a difference.

Have a great holiday and God Bless America!

2010-05-11T15:35:00.001-05:00

Please click above to watch.

Its hard to believe it is May 11th already!!!! Seriously, time flies! I have also heard season's change but I am just not feeling it. Well I am, then I am not, then I am....This has been the basic weather pattern in DC. Monday, 40 degrees, Tuesday, 85 degrees, Wed 59 degrees....come on GIVE ME SPRING and not a cold! This is where it becomes painfully clear that I am a Florida gal. I enjoy hanging Christmas lights on my palm tree while wearing flip flops and a Santa hat.

My second favorite home is Tennessee. I lived there for many years while working at Shop at Home TV and Jewelry Television. As many know , I also am a country music artist/writer and my heart is breaking for so much of amazing history that found itself under water recently. The Ryman (the original Grand Ole Opry) was under water and the damage lost there and on 2nd and Broadway is huge to Nashville. Please keep everyone in Tennessee and Oklahoma in your prayers. My best friend, Amy Gregorio was there recently supporting the beautiful Michele in Mrs Tennessee America and said that it was pretty devastating.

Much love and be blessed today to be who you are and love the one's your with.

2010-05-11T15:13:00.000-05:00

Childhood obesity is one of the most serious epidemics in the U.S., yet the unhealthy foods available to our kids and the lack of physical activity provided during the school day hinder their ability to make healthy choices to fight it.

We know this problem is urgent. But as the Senate continues to delay voting on the Child Nutrition Act, we need to make sure they know, too.

Take a moment to send a letter to your Senators to tell them how important it is that we improve the school environment for healthier kids.

The more people our Senators hear from, the likelier they are to feel pressure to push for a vote on this crucial act. By writing to them now, you can ask them to sign on to a letter going to the Senate leadership that calls for an immediate debate on this bipartisan bill.

With the growing threat of childhood obesity and related problems, we are long overdue for a re-vamp of our school nutrition programs. The Child Nutrition Act would provide much-needed support to strengthen the ways in which our schools help promote healthy lifestyle habits, such as proper nutrition and adequate daily physical activity. But we need to act now: the deadline for Senators to sign on to this letter to Senate leadership is May 19.

Tell your Senators to take this first step toward ensuring a healthy future for our kids today.

Thank you for your time---together we can make sure this important act gets passed.

2010-05-10T07:51:00.005-05:00

The weather fairy was with us for the picnic on Saturday. The Quantico Rod and Gun Club hosted the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM. The turnout was wonderful and it was great to meet so many incredible people. The Armed Forces Foundation was present along with many grass roots organizations to show support for our wounded veteran's and active duty personal.

I think it is so easy to forget all the sacrifices that are made daily by our United States military. I am often humbled and saddened when someone questions the relevance of showing support. We currently have over 1.6 million active duty personnel serving worldwide. Showing support is so vital not only for morale but also to help provide assistance to our soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and guardsmen and their families.

The war in Afghanistan continues and my sister is deploying soon in what we hope to be the last set of troops going into Iraq.

I was able to meet Congressman Rob Wittman and many others on Saturday. He truly was a nice man and it was great to see the support he was providing to our military. I also met this young many name Timothy. He was 7 and such an inspiration and a true hero also.

Thank you to all who attended and thank you to the Armed Forces Foundation and the Quantico Gun and Rod club for making it a truly spectacular event.

2010-05-05T17:28:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I am like a book. Over sensitive and broken at the binder but a good read if you like slightly broken:) Its been one of those weeks and it is only Wednesday! My weekend was my Mother in law and Father in law. My Father in law is a saint. My Mother in law...well there is a reason why there are stigmas. Monster in law ring a bell? Yes, she can read this and hate me more but I doubt that. She has FULLY shared her feelings with me. I will just say this, for someone who actually said to me...and I quote, "I don't want to know anything about your family" and they are deceased...she could not fill their shoes on their worst day. Now I must stop....but I am upset. This weekend more drama.....

So this brings me to my aggression. Spring cleaning. I have torn through things, planted flowers, folded, thrown out and not slept. This is all due to my new vegan diet. Ugh...the clarity! I was cleaning Carters room and found numerous dead flies behind furniture. These are the annoying creatures that live only 24 hours yet we strive to kill them upon initial greeting. I have never seen a baby fly....I realize I should have paid more attention in class to all of the annoyances in life but failed in this aspect of my educational development.

My week....Mother in law and dead flies....I have had better weeks. Isn't this Cinco de Mayo?

Cheers!

2010-05-04T09:57:00.000-05:00

The Quantico Rod and Gun Club will host the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM.

Congressman Wittman will attend along with several other dignitaries.

Several Beauty Queens a live band and plenty of food to go around.

Fishing lounging and good old fashioned fun.

There will be over 300 military present.

We hope to see you there!

2010-05-04T08:59:00.000-05:00

Dear Friend --

You and I have the chance to be part of something really special. It's for our troops and their moms -- and it's for our troops who are moms.

With Mother's Day fast approaching, the USO is making sure this year there are More Minutes for Mom.

http://www.uso.org/

Through this great effort, we can help our troops who are separated from their families make more phone calls home. We can make sure that no matter the distance, all our brave service men and women can connect with their families this Mother's Day.

So please donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.

I can only imagine how hard it is knowing your son or daughter is in harm's way halfway around the world.

And just think what it's like for a young mother serving with her unit in Afghanistan or Iraq and knowing that Mother's Day hug from her child will have to wait until next year.

We've got to do everything we can to help troops and their families connect on and around Mother's Day.

Donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.

I'm so proud to be a part of this special USO effort. I know you'll do everything you can to help.

http://www.uso.org/