Westchester Heart Walk Spotlights Survivor’s Journey and Lifesaving Mission
VALHALLA, July 1, 2025 — Chris Cummins was the picture of health. At 56, he exercised regularly, ate well and never smoked. But in the spring of 2022, his life took a dramatic and unexpected turn.
“I was walking five miles a day, lifting weights and stretching. I had low cholesterol and clean bills of health year after year,” said Cummins. “Then I started feeling unusually tired. I ignored it at first, like many men my age do. But it kept getting worse.”
Cummins was diagnosed with myocarditis, a condition that would soon threaten his life.
As his fatigue worsened, Cummins continued to dismiss the symptoms, convinced he would recover on his own. At his wife Sherry’s urging, he finally visited Urgent Care, where he received what appeared to be a misdiagnosis. Despite her concern that something might be wrong with his heart, he was sent home with treatment that did not address the underlying issue. But the fatigue and weakness only intensified.
When his condition continued to deteriorate, Sherry made an appointment with a cardiologist, insisting something more serious could be wrong. After a series of in-office tests, the cardiologist called an ambulance and urged immediate hospitalization. Cummins hesitated, even offering to drive himself, but the doctor insisted he be transported without delay.
This moment marked a critical turning point. It’s a powerful reminder to listen to loved ones and take symptoms seriously. Many people, especially men, delay care, but early action can save lives. A visit to a cardiologist, even when you think you're healthy, could uncover hidden dangers before it’s too late.
What began as fatigue quickly escalated into a life-threatening cardiac emergency. By the time Cummins arrived at the hospital, his heart was functioning at less than 10 percent. He was unconscious and unresponsive, and his family was told he might not survive.
“I remember waking up and being told I might need a heart transplant. I was devastated. I thought of my wife and two beautiful children and begged God for life,” Cummins recalled. “Through what I can only describe as a miracle, and thanks to the mercy of God, the dedication of my care team and the power of medical science, my heart began to recover. I didn’t need a transplant after all. But the road to recovery was long and painful.”
Today, Cummins is stable and grateful. He is sharing his story as the featured survivor for the 2025 Westchester Heart Walk, taking place on Saturday, Sept. 27, at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, New York.
“I’m walking to raise awareness and to save lives,” said Cummins. “If my story can inspire just one person to listen to their body, to seek help or to support heart research, then it’s worth it.”
The Westchester Heart Walk is a powerful community event that brings together survivors, families and advocates to fight heart disease and stroke. Funds raised support lifesaving research, education and advocacy.
“Join me,” Cummins urged. “Walk with us. Walk for your loved ones. Walk to save lives like mine.”
To register or donate, visit www.westchesterheartwalk.org. For sponsorships and other event information, contact Travis Tam at Travis.Tam@heart.org.
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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, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Bong Arquiza: Bong.Arquiza@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
