Chula Vista heart survivor to champion health and well-being as a national Youth Heart Ambassador

SAN DIEGO, Ca., September 30, 2025 — With youth facing growing physical and mental health challenges nationwide[1], the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has selected Bodhi, a 2^nd grade student at Salt Creek Elementary School in Chula Vista, Ca., as a national Youth Heart Ambassador for the 2025-26 school year. Bodhi will serve alongside other youth volunteers across the country to support the Heart Association’s school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, to inspire their peers to build lifelong healthy habits and learn lifesaving education, all while helping others.

Youth were nominated nationwide for the role, which recognizes students who have a personal connection to heart disease or stroke, either through their own diagnosis, a loved one’s experience or a passion for wellness. Bodhi heart journey began at the age of 1 when he was diagnosed with congenital heart defects, including a hole in his heart. At age 3, Bodhi had open-heart surgery. With support from his doctors and medical treatments, he made a quick recovery and now lives an active life. He keeps his heart healthy by practicing karate and dance, staying hydrated, eating well and getting quality sleep.

“It’s inspiring to see a student from our community step up as a leader for youth health,” said Maddie Manske, Development Director, School Engagement for the American Heart Association – San Diego. “Bodhi brings an important voice to this mission, and we’re excited to see the difference he will make in San Diego County.”

As a Youth Heart Ambassador for the 2025-26 school year, Bodhi will raise awareness about the impact of heart disease and stroke, advocate for healthy habits and lifesaving skills like Hands-Only CPR and encourage support for the Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

“We are so proud of Bodhi and the strength he’s shown through his heart journey,” said Bodhi’s mom, Dana. “At just 7 years old, he’s embracing his special heart and sharing his story to inspire other kids and families. He is a true example that even the youngest voices can make a big difference and bring hope to others.”

Backed by science, the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge teach students how to care for their hearts, minds and bodies through age-appropriate lessons and activities in more than 20,000 schools across the country. These programs encourage students to get active, build confidence and support the Heart Association’s work to fund lifesaving research and education around heart disease and stroke prevention, cardiac emergency preparedness and more.

Schools can register now to take part in the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs for the 2025-26 school year. Nominations for Youth Heart Ambassadors are accepted year-round. To learn more or apply to become a future Youth Heart Ambassador, visit heart.org/youthambassador.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Erika Cervantes-Aarons: Erika.Cervantes-Aaro@heart.org

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org