I can truly speak from my heart on the subject of heart disease because it has affected me my entire life. It’s the one huge family health issue on both sides, and it runs strong. It all started when my father suffered a heart attack and was diagnosed with arterial sclerosis at age 50. My dad has always been my big strong hero, the man I lived and breathed for, so when he started having heart problems, I was devastated at the thought of losing him.

I watched him go from training horses and driving tractors to fearing that too much exertion would prompt another heart attack. Over the course of 25 years, he underwent several open-heart surgeries, bypasses, stent, balloons, you name it. Caring for him throughout the years and seeing firsthand how the disease affected our family made me want to take my health into my own hands.

When I turned 30, I found a wonderful cardiologist and committed to going every year for a checkup even though I was convinced I’d be the exception to the family gene pool. Instead, I found out that I have a leaky heart valve. It’s not a serious condition, but it reminds me how important it is to stay in tune with my body.

Today, I read everything I can on healthy living. I make healthy choices for myself -- I hardly eat fried foods, take loads of vitamins, don’t smoke and stay really active.

Most women don’t know that the heart is a very forgiving organ. Even if you have abused it by smoking, diet pills or lack of exercise, you can start right now to repair it by simply making the right choices. Just keep re-committing to a healthy life every morning and every moment.

Even though my father lost his battle, he is still an inspiration to me along with my beautiful girls and amazing husband. And there’s nothing like a family of women who rally together in support of one another. Together, we truly can prevent heart disease.

I go absolutely, crazy red for my family, my daughters and my hubby.