One Month Out: Slowing Down, Soaking It In, and Remembering Why I Fight

One month from today, I’ll be on the table for open-heart surgery.

That’s a sentence I never thought I’d write at 44.

I’ve spent most of my life training hard, coaching others, raising my boys, chasing goals, and doing my best to stay one step ahead of life. But now, as I stare down a date that will quite literally change my life—I’m learning to slow down.

Not because I want to. But because I have to.

Lately, the walks I take with my kids feel heavier. Not in a sad way—but in a deeply intentional way. I notice every small laugh, every question, every moment of silence between us. These walks with my crew mean more now than ever.

Every step is a reminder of what I’m fighting for: My boys. My fiancée. My daughter on the way.

This life that God’s given me.

I’m Walking for My Heart—Literally

We go through life assuming health is the default—until it’s not. Suddenly your world is filled with appointments, tests, and medical terms you’ve never heard before. That’s my reality now. But I’m still here, and I’m still fighting.

That’s why I’ve signed up for the 30km Outdoor Challenge for Heart & Stroke. My training looks very different now, but walking and biking with my family has taken on a new purpose. Every step, every ride, every breath—I’m doing it for my heart and for all the people out there facing the same fight.

Why It Matters

I’m doing this to raise awareness. To support life-saving research.

To give back to an organization that’s helping people like me—and the 1 in 12 Canadians living with heart disease or stroke.

I’ve set a big fundraising goal, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who’s donated so far. Your support means more than you know. Every single contribution helps fund better treatments, longer lives, and more time with the people we love.

If you’d like to be part of that impact, I’d love your help. Whether it’s a small donation or just sharing the message, it all matters. You can donate here!

One Month to Go

With just four weeks left until surgery, my days are slower, quieter, more intentional. I’m walking more and lifting less. I’m focusing on what I can do. And most of all, I’m holding tight to what matters.

This challenge isn’t just about movement. It’s about heart. It’s about hope. It’s about showing up—even when it’s hard.

Thank you for walking this road with me.

Slowing Down Without Giving Up

Physically, I can’t push the way I used to (or want to). Workouts have changed. Sparring is paused, actually, all sports are paused. But showing up? That hasn’t changed. Slowing down doesn’t mean giving up—it just means I’m learning to move with intention.

I’m still here. I’m still showing up. I’m still fighting.

Even on the days that feel heavy… I’m walking forward. Because I have everything to fight for.

Through it all, I trust that God is still writing my story—and He’s not done with me yet